England international distance runner, NICOLA BAMFORD grilled Sheffield’s very own ‘awesome foursome’ about life, athletics and dealing with pressure on the eve of the World Championships. (written for Re:Play magazine, 06/07).

It is somewhat extraordinary that Sheffield will boast not one, but four representatives at the recent World Athletics Championships, in Osaka, Japan. The unique situation will occur when 1500m runners, Abby Westley and Becky Lyne, steeplechaser, Hatti Dean and heptathlete; Jessica Ennis all say a cheery ‘sayonara’ to the Steel City, as they embark on their Japanese sporting adventure. As the quartet flew out to Asia a fortnight early to acclimatise, the girls were quizzed before their global challenge. Poised to take on the World’s elite at the average age of just 23, the ‘awesome foursome’ kindly took time out from their preparation to provide Re: Play readers with an insight into their daily lives, future aims and what they think of each other.
There are three endearing attributes which link these talented young women; dedication, passion and modesty. Each athlete has gradually developed into an established international whilst keeping their feet firmly on the ground; here we outline their rise to fame and athletic success.....

For baby of the bunch, Abby Westley; aged 20, the World Championships will represent her senior Great Britain Championship debut. The Loughborough Students AC metric mile wiz (and former Hallamshire Harrier) turned down the chance to compete in the World Student Games in favour of the August 25th-Sept 2nd event, and has experienced a breakthrough summer season. The George Gandy-coached athlete has catapulted herself onto the athletics radar in 2007, with emphatic victories at the British Universities Championships, Loughborough International, European Cup First League and on the European circuit in Switzerland. But the icing on the cake for the former High Storrs school pupil, was storming to the European under23 1500m title in Debrecen, Hungary on her 20th birthday.
The 2005 World junior cross-country and European under20 800m-representative is understandably excited about the 1500m in Osaka, an event in which her training partner, Lisa Dobriskey will be joining her; “I’m not nervous, as I got used to running with a camera in my face back at the European Cup. I’m just so excited – I’ve worked so hard so it’s nice to get a reward; it’s a big boost,” reveals the Loughborough University psychology student. “I don’t want to be an also-ran and I’ll respect the other competitors. I’d like to reach the semi-final stage and run that as my final to see where it gets me. I’m confident I can run a personal best time out there and give it my best shot. I want to learn as much as I can so I can come back again in a few years to challenge for medals.”

Currently ranked 2nd and 50thon the British and World lists respectively, with a sensational 4:08.76, Westley has come a long way since her first competitive outing; winning a 300m cross-country race as an 8-year-old in Endcliffe Park. Initially a swimmer for the Dronfield Dolphins, the 2006 European junior cross-country 10th-placer joined Hallamshire Harriers at aged12 and quickly went on to achieve substantial success. The support from her family, friends and boyfriend, Tom; a national-standard 1500m runner, has undoubtedly ensured Westley’s achievements continue. Her disciplined approach to training and recovering has additionally aided her vast improvement.

The likeable Yorkshire lass was keen to praise those who contributed to her scintillating form and rise to World-level; “George’s been great – he’s coming out to the training camp and the Worlds to support me. I’d also like to thank Keith Whitelam and Ian Wainwright for the work, friendship and support they provided for me while I was at Hallamshire Harriers – I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for them.”

Now as part of such a formidable athletic team, Westley explains, “I used to train with Becky; she’s always been a role model and inspiration – it’s nice to see where dedication can get you. Hatti’s incredible, she used to give me a run for my money in training and it’s really nice to see her improving. Jessica’s been on the same teams as me since school - her winning performances have made it seem achievable. They’re all such nice girls; it’s so nice to be around such a great team.”

Evidently level-headed, Westley plans to resume her studies in the autumn on a part-time basis, in order to capitalise on her outstanding progression. Only a second off the Olympic qualifying standard, one could forgive the talented teen for being brash but no; “There’s no reason I should change just because I’ve gotten faster!” she exclaims.

No stranger to pressure and attention, City of Sheffield AC multi-events star, Jessica Ennis heads into the Worlds as a genuine medal contender. The Diminutive 21 year-old’s exploits this season (as detailed on her website; www.jessicaennis.net), have took the athletics world by storm, with many touting her as a potential star of 2012. But, like the other three girls, the Commonwealth Heptathlon bronze-medallist, refuses to focus on the daunting attention or succumb to the immense pressure; “It’s nice to have people talk about me but I try not to think about it, and focus on bettering myself,” the Toni Minichello-coached athlete explained. “In Osaka, I hope to get a personal best, and if that gets me a medal, it’ll be great.”

The Adidas-sponsored Northerner, in only her second senior season, is in the pinnacle of her career to date. Ranked third in the World Heptathlon rankings, the 2005 European junior heptathlon Champion has had an unprecedented 2007 campaign. Building on an impressive winter in which she finished 6th in the European indoor pentathlon Championships, the British number one started the season in familiar victorious style. The World-Class Podium Lottery-funded star, set out on a British record-breaking spree, as the 2006 European heptathlon 8th-placer equalled the 25-year-old high-jump mark of 1.95m and 2000 Olympic heptathlon Champion, Denise Lewis’ under23 heptathlon record, with a superb 6388-tally at the IAAF Combined Events Challenge in Italy. Next on the agenda for the 2005 World University Games bronze-medallist was a scintillating 13.04 100m hurdles clocking, when claiming gold in the England Athletics under23 Championships; eclipsing 1992 Olympic 400m hurdles Champion, Sally Gunnell’s Championship record in the process.

The most eye-catching performance by the versatile athlete however, was her gold medal-winning display at the European Cup Combined Events Super League, in Poland. Leading team GB to an historic victory, Ennis’ 6399 score improved her 2006 best by 112points and subsequently shot her to third in the global rankings; establishing herself as a key protagonist for medals in Osaka. Never one to rest on her laurels however, Ennis went onto claim European under23 hurdles bronze, national double glory in the hurdles and high-jump and finished 1st and 4th in the long-jump and 200m at the Celtic Cup.

Introduced to the sport via the Star:track athletics scheme at Don Valley stadium; a venue where, in addition to Sheffield’s EIS, she regularly trains, Ennis appears to have the World at her feet and have found the perfect formula for success. Ennis’s website manager, Phil Parkin revealed; “She’s been with Toni since she was 13. They have a very respectful relationship; purely business. They have the ultimate goal in mind and Dave Collins, UK Athletics Performance Director, has highlighted them as ideal role models.”
A prodigious youngster, seemingly winning numerous national titles for fun, the 2003 World Youths 5th-placer surrounds herself with a close-knit network of friends and family. Her father, Vinroy; a schoolboy sprinter in Jamaica and boyfriend, Andy are just two of a large fan-club who help the Sheffield University psychology-graduate keep a healthy balance in her life. Training twice, even three times a day, with massage, promotion and press duties, Ennis knows all too well the stresses and strains of being a world-class full-time athlete. Nevertheless, her regimented training and commitment is bringing those well-earned rewards.

The 2007 season has also witnessed the re-emergence of 800m runner, Becky Lyne. The European 800m bronze-medallist was forced to endure an injury-riddled winter, which would test the patience and determination of any athlete. After picking up a calf strain whilst training in Australia, Lyne then experienced Achilles troubles, followed by a reoccurrence of the calf injury. A three-month-long spell of rehabilitation proceeded, consisting of swimming and cross-training, which Lyne described as “soul destroying – I didn’t run between mid-February and mid-May; it was so frustrating.”

Fortunately for the Dave Turnbull-coached athlete her agent, sponsor and coach respectively, stayed loyal to her during these testing times. “Dave’s been fantastic; he’s got a family and a job yet he measured trails for me to run on and cycled alongside me in training – he nursed me back well,” Lyne praised. “I’ve been with Nike (her sponsor) since 2003 and luckily they’ve kept faith in me by renewing my contract and Nic (Bideau, her agent)’s been great, too.” Doing presentations and motivational speaking in schools, as well as practising her Spanish helped keep Lyne sane during those challenging months. The support of her team has undoubtedly ensured Lyne remains in the sport and maintaining her place on the World-Class Performance Lottery Programme has enabled the Loughborough and Indianapolis University sports science and Spanish graduate to access free medical back-up and train full-time without financial worries; a contribution which was pivotal to her athletic return. “My physio; Alison Rose, was fantastic, absolutely phenomenal,” Lyne recalls.

The 25 year-old Hallamshire Harrier made her eagerly-anticipated comeback at the Norwich Union British Grand Prix at Don Valley Stadium. In a baptism of fire for the former Tapton school pupil, Lyne had a less than ideal homecoming, as she trailed home last. However, the Stockport-based runner kept her patience and continued to progress to finish a respectable 5th in the 1500m at the World Trials and British Championships.

Then, showing glimmers of her former self, the 2006 British Athletics Writers Association Athlete of the Year finished 5th overall and fourth Britain in 2:00.86, in the second leg of the British Grand Prix at Crystal Palace. The 2001 European Junior and 2003 European under23 800m champion had an anxious wait as her global championship fate was decided by the GB selectors; who luckily, put their faith in her by giving her the final 800m berth for Osaka. "It's weird as I'm not really celebrating, as the aim at the start of the year was to run well in the Worlds not just to qualify - I really want to get the job done," responded Lyne to the news of her selection. "I had inkling after Crystal Palace that I'd get picked - I showed the progress I'm making and I hope to repay the selectors' faith by continuing to go from strength to strength."
On her sensational return to Great Britain duty, the 2006 World Athletics Final 5th-placer says, “If I stay injury-free and continue to train well, anything's possible. I've got a good training base behind me." World-ranked 46th on the season’s 800m rankings, Lyne is reluctant to predict an instant return to medal-winning form; "I'm not taking anything for granted or making predictions - I've learnt how quickly things can be taken away from you."

A member of Hallamshire since aged 13 and a former child ballet enthusiast, the 2006 World Cup 4th placer contributes the 1991 World Student Games, held in Sheffield, as a source of initial inspiration. “It gave me my first taste of athletics and left a great sporting infrastructure in the city-something that all four of us have benefitted from,” revealed the 2005 World Student Games 1500m 5th-placer; who additionally revealed that athletes never get to see much of the countries they get to visit, although “it’s nice to meet new people, but I prefer racing in England anyway – for the home support.”

Ranked 3rd on the British all-time lists with 1:58.20, the promising two-lap specialist explained that despite no longer residing in Sheffield, she still likes to regularly tie in visits to the EIS with catching up with family and friends and if she wasn’t an athlete, Lyne would go into exercise physiology to encourage healthy living.

Billed as the next Kelly Holmes, Lyne appears to cope admirably with the pressure she constantly faces; “I’m not going to dwell on my past achievements. I try to keep it simple and not get distracted,” explained the humble Northerner; who rarely reads about, or watches herself. “My motivation is about proving to myself I can do it. Every day’s a test and I want to succeed in those tests. I do enjoy what I do; the more success I’ve had, the more determined I’ve become.”

On her British counterparts, Lyne adds; “Abby’s a big, big talent; I’m so pleased she’s realising that now – all credit to her; she’s battled on and got recognised. It’s weird almost, as she’s now a rival. She used to be the little girl behind me in training. I don’t know Hatti well, as she moved to Sheffield when I left but it’s good she’s progressing well. Once when I volunteered at a schools league, Jess won by the high jump by miles – that’s my claim to fame-measuring her height! I sometimes see her out clubbing (very rarely of course) and we’ll say to each other – you shouldn’t be in here!”

Further proof that elite athletes are just like any other ordinary people, is another Hallamshire Harrier, 25 year-old Hatti Dean. The Oxford and Sheffield University maths and statistics-graduate, combines full-time training with 32.5hours of work per week, as a civil service statistician. Although the Bud Baldaro-coached steeplechaser enjoys her job, it is a far cry from the lifestyle expected of an athlete of her calibre.

Having thrice broken the British 3000m steeplechase record this season, Dean understandably goes into the World Championships brimming with confidence. The Puma-sponsored runner, who has improved her best mark by 13seconds this year, began her track campaign with double victory at the Yorkshire Championships, over 1500m flat and 2000m steeplechase respectively; the latter performance lifting her to no.2 on the UK all-time lists, with a scintillating 6:30 clocking. The 2007 World cross-country 10th-placer then further impressed during England representative duty at the Loughborough International, by front-running to a comfortable 9:51 3000m steeplechase victory.

Next on the agenda was the British Miler’s Club Grand Prix in Manchester on June 9th; a meeting where Dean’s performance cemented her place in history, gaining her national recognition in the process. Floating over the barriers to a swift 9:43.11; it was here where Dean notched up her first national record. The former England international Lacrosse and regional-standard tennis-player, then excelled in the international arena at the European Cup First League in Finland with an impressive emphatic twelve-second victory, this time stopping the clock at 9:42.66; bettering her own British record. Continuing her spectacular vein of form, Dean progressed to a sensational 9:38.56 clocking at the Don Valley leg of the British Grand Prix, and was thus awarded $2500 for her efforts. Honing her speed with a ninth-place finish over 1500m flat at the World Trials and British Championships, the PACE-Management signed-athlete then stormed to a scintillating 8:58 3000m flat clocking at the Crystal Palace Grand Prix.

Ranked 28th in the World over the barriers this year, Dean was keen to praise the help of her coaches during her stellar track campaign thus far; “Bud’s been so good for my confidence; he’s always motivating me and really makes me believe in myself. Simon Richardson, my hurdles coach, has really helped my hurdling, too.”

A talented runner as a youngster, Dean swapped national athletics titles for revision; as injuries and competitive academia environments contributed to her quitting the sport at 18. Luckily, for the athletics world, she found the pressure and nerves in her other favoured sports, too much – therefore, the 2006 national steeplechase Champion has achieved such fascinating success, off only three years consistent training.

Eighth in her heat at the 2006 Europeans in 9:52, Dean claims she now copes with pressure much better than she used to. “I do get really nervous still, though,” she reveals, “I find it hard when I’m expected to beat people. On her motivation, Osaka aims and the remaining three-quarters of the ‘awesome foursome’, the former Radley Ladies athlete divulged; “Running gives me confidence, it makes me happy. My aim for the Worlds is to get to the final. I never intentionally go for the British Record, but we’ll see. The other girls have all done amazing in their own ways. Abby’s matured so much; I have real confidence in her when I see her run; she looks so strong. Becky’s done very well to get back and improve – she could peak for Osaka and Jessica’s just amazing in everything she does.”

So there you have it; a sneaky peek into their lives of four of Britain’s most promising athletes. Feeling inspired? I am!

To see how the ‘awesome foursome’ faired in Osaka, see ukathletics.net and iaaf.org

FLORA LONDON MARATHON REPORT (written for England Athletics 04/08).

Coinciding with the 100th anniversary of marathon running in London, the twenty-seventh Flora London marathon celebrated with two of England’s finest distance stars; Liz Yelling and Dan Robinson both running personal bests to book their Olympic spots for Beijing later this summer.

Yelling; the 33 year-old Bedford and County runner, capitalised on her outstanding recent form that includes 15th place in the World cross-country Championships, by scorching away to a 2:28.33 clocking; thus obliterating her personal best by over two minutes in the process.

"I'm delighted to break the two-and-a-half hour barrier," explained Yelling, who finished three places and 45-seconds ahead of second Brit; Hayley Haining of Kilbrachan.

Both figured in the leading group at six miles but it was Yelling; the Athens Olympic marathon 25th-placer, who risked going with the international pack, whilst Haining took a more cautious approach and fell away behind the leading pack.

"Before the race I had my own plan but decided to go with the field as the early pace wasn't so fast," said Yelling. “I'm not sure I ran the best tactical race but I decided to just race and see how much I had. There was a lot of pressure, and it was just a case of trying to keep it in perspective and not let it get to me."

Reflecting on the tussle to join the Beijing pre-selected Paula Radcliffe and Mara Yamauchi, Yelling added, "It really was hard work between 13 and 18 miles and looking back I could see Hayley in the distance. It was becoming hard work but then I looked back and saw Hayle

y which gave me a big kick up the bottom.”
“I told myself if Hayley is going to get this, I'm going to make her work for it and if she does she will deserve it. It made me pick up and run faster but the last six miles were really hard."

Haining also set an impressive PB of 2.29.18 in finishing 12th and admitted after her sighting of Yelling, it did occur to her to that there was still the possibility of closing down a gap which wasn't too large in the closing stages.

"At 18 miles I could see her and we were getting closer. But there was still a long way to go so I decided to sit tight and be conservative," said the full-time veterinary pathologist at Glasgow University.

"At 19 miles I was going into a roundabout as she was coming off it and we just looked at one another. But I'm delighted with breaking 2hr 30min and my performance."

Other Brits to impress included Britsol’s Lucy Hasell in 15th with 2:40:31, Scot Susan Partridge (2:4140) in 17th, Telford’s Kim Fawke (2:42:08) in 18th, Sale’s Amy
Whitehead (2:45:38) in 19th and AFD’s Andrea Woodvine (2:45:49) in 20th position.

Yelling, Hasell and Fawke took the England Athletics Championships gold, silver and bronze medals, whilst Reading Road Runners took team gold, ahead of St Albans Striders and Belgrave Harriers.

Robinson ran a fine time of 2:13.11 - more than 40 seconds better than his previous best - to finish in 12th place, just behind Olympic champion Stefano Baldini and increase his Beijing aspirations.

The 33 year-old Stroud runner spoke of his delight at missing it with the global elite; "I'm quite satisfied, I can only do my best. It's mind-boggling when the leaders are running 2:05 but my job was to finish top Brit, to run a PB if possible and try to confirm my Olympic place which I think I've done, so it's a case of job done."

Thomas Abyu faded in the final stages after being leading Brit for the early part of the race and came home in 2.15.50. The Salford runner had hoped to improve on his spectacular 2:10.37 from last year’s Dublin marathon, when his Olympic dreams were dashed following the news of the race being held on an uncertified course; but had struggled of late, following a untimely bout of flu.

Other domestic highlight included Leigh Harriers’ Pete Riley’s 2:18:21 for 18th place, Swaledale’s Tony Lambert (2:18:40) in 19th and Cardiff’s Richie Gardiner (2:20:28) in 21st position.

Robinson, Abyu and Riley took the England Athletics Championships gold, silver and bronze medals; and Leeds City AC took the team honours, ahead of Thames Hare and Hounds and Winchester and District AC.

The top English athletes from this year’s race will be considered for selection to represent England in the Toronto marathon on the 19th of October, against the USA and Mexico.

ENGLAND SQUADS TAKE FIRST AND SECOND IN LOUGHBOROUGH (written for England Athletics, o5/08).

The England women’s team scored a close victory at the 50th anniversary of the Loughborough International, whilst the England men’s squad finished second during a nail-biting and exhilarating day’s action at the Loughborough University track, writes Nicola Bamford.

Scoring an impressive 90 points over runners-up; Loughborough University Past and Present with 87 points, the England ladies wrapped up the tight triumph at the wire, as the 4x400m relay outfit narrowly helped the squad to the title in the final event of the day. The England men meanwhile were left to lick their wounds, as they lost the match to Loughborough due to a disqualification in the final relay race.

Amina Ceesay and Joice Maduaka both finished second in the 100m and 200m, with 12:08 and 24.04, respectively and Perry Shakes-Drayton scored an impressive and emphatic 400m flat victory, with a superb 53.76 clocking.

Jo Ankier notched a useful l 10:21.09 for the runner-up placing in the 3,000m steeplechase, whilst Zara Hohn took seventh position in the 100m hurdles, with 14.70.

Sophie Morris took the 5,000m with a scorching 16:20.88 and Faye Fullerton scored a 1500m third-place, with 4:10.45.

Susan Moncrieff dominated the high-jump with an impressive 1m82 leap, whilst Phyllis Agbo took fourth in the long-jump with a 6m07 leap and Zoe Derham finished runner-up in the hammer, with a 64.81 throw.

Eden Francis took the second-place spot in the shot put, with 15.43, as Emma Carpenter also placed runner-up with 54.82 discus throw. Lauren Therin was third in the javelin, with 45m64 and triple-jumper; Nadia Williams took second with 13m45.

The 4x100m squad took the win by over a second, in a notable 43.65 clocking, whilst the 4x400m team taking the top spot with 3:38.98.

On the men’s side, Richard Hill ran imposingly to take the 800m in 1:47.47, whilst Glen Comish ran away with the 3000m steeplechase to win by over 10-seconds, with a fine 8:57.91. Phil Nichols ran strongly to dominate the 5000m; registering 13:58.28.

Eli Winn placed fourth in the 200m with 21.67, as did Nick Gayle in the 110m hurdles, with 14.46 and Neil Speight in the 1500m, with 3:44.47.

Andy Frost dominated the hammer, with a winning 66m15 throw, as Martin Lloyd leapt top third-place with 2m15 in the high jump. Jonathon Moore was prevailed in the long-jump; registering 7m74.

AbdulBuhari placed second in the discus with 57m64, as Mervyn Luckwell was runner-up in the javelin, with a useful 72m throw. Julian Golley jumped to second with 15m12 in the triple-jump, before the men’s 4x100m relay winners sped to a 39.46 victory.

WITTY ANECDOTES FROM THE WORLD OF RUNNING (compiled for UK Athletics 06/08).

A major benefit to training and competing in this crazy sport we so love is that it brings us plenty of amusing anecdotes, along the barmy route of our journey to fitness and success. Run Britain editor, NICOLA BAMFORD researched into a few comical tales and would like to invite readers to submit their favourite stories, too! Go on – give us a laugh at your expense!

The following accounts are extracted from Geoff Wightman and Dave Bedford’s hilarious book; “Funny Running Shorts”...

· DAVE BEDFORD (1960’s) – When Jim Hogan ran in one of the International cross-country races, which were the forerunner of the World cross-country Championships, he did not care for the fact that the organiser had included a couple of manmade barriers of each of the laps. He ran around the outside of each and every one of them, blaming the congested approach. When the results appeared it said ‘Hogan, England DQ’. Jim was not happy about this and marched over to the referee.
“Why the feck have you disqualified me?”
“Because you didn’t jump any of the hurdles.”
“You show me where in the feckin’ rules it says that you have to jump over the hurdles.”
The referee then leafed through the rulebook and read aloud ‘competitors must negotiate all barriers on the course’.
“Exactly. I did feckin’ negotiate them. I went around them.”
The ultimate irony of this episode is that Jim is now involved in training horses to run in the Cheltenham National Hunt racing festival.

· GEOFF WIGHTMAN (1970’s) – My Dartford Harriers colleague Mr X was delighted that he and his neighbours would be in charge of one of the drinks stations on the Dartford half-marathon course. The race is always held in late July or early August and traditionally enjoys hot weather, so the water stops are vital.
X wanted his to be a very slick and spotless operation. He took away two huge black plastic watertubs from the clubhouse store and began the preparations for a world-class water station at mile nine. He scoured the tubs clean for maximum hygiene and coached all his neighbours in the art of the perfect drink cups handover. His attention to detail was well received by the athletes many of whom were tempted by X’s nicely chilled refreshment beverages as they sped past the nine mile point. Unfortunately, 100metres beyond the nine mile point the smooth passage of the race became heavily punctuated by the sounds of retching runners. X had used bleach to clean the tubs and the taste was still there in each and every mouthful of water that he dispensed.

· DAVE BEDFORD (1970’s) – It attracted a lot of attention when I first started experimenting with running 200 miles per week in training but at the time I was keen to explore just how far I could take my limits, even if no-one else had ventured into that sort of territory. Mind you, it can lead to compulsive behaviour traits. I used to start my weekly training log on a Saturday and finish on a Friday because the weekend gave a good start in attacking the mileage.
At the end of my first ever week of my planned 200 miles regime, I climbed, weary but in content, into a hot bath on the Friday night. I flicked through my training diary and totted up the last seven day’s mileage once again, feeling very pleased with myself. To my horror, it totalled 196 miles. I immediately climbed out of the bath, put on my kit and went straight out for a five mile run. Barmy I know, but I can tell you, should you ever be tempted to try this at home, that a hot bath is all the more pleasurable when you have got 201 miles under your belt instead of a paltry 196.

· SUSAN WIGHTMAN (1980’s) – In my twenties, I had the chance to race on the roads in America several times a year. This fitted in quite neatly with school holidays and, during my probationary year as a teacher; I also managed to get clearance for leave of absence to race three times on a short trip in November. The races went well and after the third one, I discovered that I had scored enough points to qualify for the Scholls/ARRA Grand Prix Final race that was to be held the following weekend in Hawaii. It was a fantastic opportunity, but it was with some trepidation that I rang my headmaster back in Bristol to see if he would approve a one week extension to my leave. He was not best pleased and although he eventually did give permission, he made it clear, under no uncertain terms, that whatever happened I had to be back in school in good time for Monday morning registration.
Immediately after the race I began the long journey back home and I finally arrived back in Bristol, more jet-lagged than I can ever remember, at tea-time on the Sunday afternoon. I made a telephone call to a staff colleague to arrange for them to pick me up by car on the Gloucester Road the following morning at eight o’clock sharp. By six o’clock, I could not stay awake any longer and, having set my alarm for 7.30am, I fell into a deep sleep. When I finally stirred I looked at the clock and was mortified to see that it was ten to eight. I must have slept right through the alarm!
Frantically, I rushed around the house gathering my things together and sprinted out the door. I arrived on the corner of Gloucester Road breathless and flustered, at precisely eight o’clock. Then I waited. It was absolutely freezing and by 8.15, fearing the wrath of the Head, I began thinking of alternate ways that I could get in on time. First, I needed to telephone my colleague to make sure nothing untoward had happened. I ran to the telephone box. As I did so, I had a feeling of unease. With hindsight, an open fish and chip shop and a closed newsagents should have been a strong clue. I flagged down a passer-by.
“Excuse me, can you tell me whether it’s eight o’clock in the morning or eight o’clock at night, please?”
The lady looked at me as if I was utterly barking.
“It’s eight o’clock on Sunday night” she replied, hurrying to get away from the red-eyed woman. I had been asleep for less than two hours.

Top 20 Ways to Stay Motivated During the Winter Months (written for UK Athletics 10/08).

Even the most talented runners must struggle from time to time to drag themselves out the door for a run or session during the cold, wet and dark winter so runbritain.com editor NICOLA BAMFORD reveals her ‘Top 20 ways to stay motivated during the winter months’...

1. Have a tangible reward on your return - give yourself a treat; an incentive to get out there - whether that be a hot chocolate, warm bubble bath or your favourite takeaway.

2. Set yourself realistic goals – know your fitness level and limits – set a target time for a length of run to aim for that you’re confident of achieving - gradually increase this over time.

3. Stay positive – think of the benefits to training like improving your health, increasing your fitness level and aiding your mental toughness for competitions.

4. Decide which races to do in the spring – pencil in and aim to train specifically for a few races during the New Year to Easter period – entering these will provide an even bigger motivational tool.
5. Self-satisfaction – there’s a great sense of achievement in completing a run or session when the elements are against you – give yourself a big pat on the back!

6. Cover up against the elements– wearing water-proofs, layers and a hat and gloves when required, will help you to brave the cold and wet environment. Don’t forget your reflective gear if you intend to train in the dark!

7. Train with a friend – knowing that you’ve organised to meet and run with a training partner should be enough to get you out the door and chatting along should make the weather more bearable.

8. Burn off those calories – most people tend to eat more in the winter months to keep themselves warm – what a great excuse! But of course, not wanting to gain those extra pounds should keep you motivated to train. Each mile ran can burn up to 100 calories – think of it as 2 slices of pizza!

9. Visualisation – choose a well-known route and mentally dissect it into segments to help yourself get through the tough workout.

10. Have appreciation for your running – remind yourself every day that at least you can run – we should be very grateful indeed!

11. Create a training diary – logging your training may encourage you to keep training; nobody likes to see too many blanks in it now do they!

12. Invest in some new kit – having some brand new apparel and shoes will hopefully excite you into using them – regularly!

13. Run at lunchtime – give yourself a break from work and try not to run first or last thing in the day when it’s darker and colder.

14. Watch/read some motivational tools – such as running DVDs, books and quotes.

15. Make a massage appointment – perhaps not seen as a treat but it’ll do you the World of good! – The less tight and tired your muscles are, the more likely you are to want to train.

16. Train to race for charity – by selecting a charity to compete for, your motivation should double – you’re not just running for yourself anymore!

17. Be careful – slippy roads, lashing rain, piles of leaves and the dark can cause a plethora of hazards – take care!

18. Train to music – probably one of the best motivational tools for keeping you going during the miles – but take care when ‘zoning out’ to your favourite bands during the winter months.

19. Stay healthy – eating, drinking and sleeping adequately will aid your motivation to train, as you’ll feel fitter and fresher.

20. If all else fails to get you running outside, train inside – join a gym and do your runs and even sessions (with care) on a treadmill – but beware of the injuries this method of training can potentially cause.

HAPPY TRAINING!!!

The 10 types of runner – which are you? (written for UK Athletics 03/08).

There’s no denying it – whatever the weather, however tired we might feel, we all love to pound the roads relentlessly; day in, day out - either in search of gaining that extra advantage when it comes to race day, or just to help shift a few pounds.

But have you ever asked yourself exactly what type of runner you are? NICOLA BAMFORD explains the ‘10 types of runners’ and elaborates on their distinguishable traits and behaviours, to help you identify exactly which ‘runner category’ you fall into...

1. The obsessive runner – sometimes their own worst enemy. The obsessive runner will not necessarily gain an extreme level of personal satisfaction from each and every run, but would rather be condemned to hell than miss a scheduled training plod or session.

The ‘Obsessives’ worship and aspire to emulate their hero; the great – and ultra-consistent - Mr Ron Hill. This, however, can occasionally instigate injury and illness; resulting in the obsessive runner becoming withdrawn and exceedingly depressed – life as they know it, has ended.

This type of ‘runner breed’ cannot function properly in its’ daily tasks without indulging in its’ regular guilty pleasure of a 30-min outdoor escapade at the very least. Should this fanatical athlete complete a run under the expected time period, then they will simply jog on the spot until the clock hits the desired point in time; only then can a sense of full contentment be enjoyed.

The classic rugby tackle is also usually recommended to halt the ‘Obsessives’ from another set of reps in training, and WARNING! – They WILL resort to breaking and entering to use the track or clubhouse gym during holidays.

Obsessive runners tend to race at every available opportunity; normally each weekend and their numerous skills include being able to reel off the personal bests, achievements and vital statistics on any runner, worth their salt. Yes, the Obsessive runners live, eat and breathe running.

2. The reluctant runner– needs a kick up the backside even to get out the door for even a weekly bimble – shame on you!

Cunning tactics used to entice this so-called ‘running enthusiast’ into a pair of trainers include the meticulous positioning of an accompanying training partner for motivation, or the promise of either a cold, frosty beverage or a slice of pie on the successful return of their athletic endeavours.

The ‘reluctants’ prefer to remain anonymous through fear of embarrassment of their laziness and being lynched by the hard-core nutters; mentioned in the above category. They know they ought to run (if only to justify their club membership) but live by the motto; “I’ll do double the distance tomorrow” – yeah, right!

3. The ‘in denial’ runner – comes in two different species. The ‘in denial of health’ runner will continue to train despite the onset of injury or illness. The only guaranteed method of preventing such runners is for a fully-qualified physiotherapist or physician to literally scare the hell out of them with tales of potential run-threatening ailments or developing heart-failure.

Useful signs to spot this ‘runner bread’ include responses such as “Nah, I’m fine - that bone’s always stuck out there!” and “Why I am clenching my side (conspicuously situated near the appendix area) as I run? – it’s just a bit of stitch; it’ll pass!”

The ‘in denial of their ability’ runner believes their running capabilities are far superior to what they really are. Such runners will make absurdly unrealistic race predictions and seek sponsorship and elite entry to races only worthy of athletes who cross the finish-line before they even reach the half-way mark – bless!

4. The moaner – the World always seems to be against ‘moaning runners’. The heavens appear to only ever open the instant they set foot out of door for a run, and the organisation and courses at races are just never good enough!

The call of a ‘Moaner’ is usually heard during the beginning, middle and end of runs and especially sessions. Phrases such as “How far?!”, “Aren’t we done yet – my quads are killing and it’s raining!” and “Thank goodness for that – never again!” are typical responses to even the easiest of exercise levels. A ‘Moaner’ just isn’t a moaner with moaning, now are they!

Even if the temperature, weather conditions, traffic, registration tent, entertainment, refreshments and the race itself are up to scratch, ‘Moaners’ are always sure to find the proficiency to dig up some problem or another; usually a convenient excuse to employ for the cause behind their lacklustre performance – pure genius!

5. The over-enthusiastic runner – believes “you’re not running properly if you’re not running fast!” This breed of ‘runner species’ is so keen and eager to run each and every run, session and race at maximum effort, that all sense of caution, rational thought and pre-arranged race tactics are instantly thrown to the wind as soon as the starting gun fires.

Otherwise known as the competitive or stupid runner, the ‘over-enthusiasts’ have no need for wise implements such as heart-rate monitors – that would only slow them down!

These runners are always the first to arrive at race start-lines and are noticeable for their impatience; notably the necessity of being physically held back by a duo of muscular men, to ensure they refrain from false-starting; such is their level of over-zealousness – it’s just a hobby!

6. The plodder – ‘Plodders’ are blissfully content to bimble around, admiring the views on their runs; whether it be during a Sunday 10-miler or in a race situation. They hold no fear of being lapped or overtaken by 12 year-old girls, for – as they so frequently like to say – “What’s the rush?!”

As in the old adage of the Tortoise and the Hare tale, ‘Plodders’ believe that sensible pacing will prosper in the end and that the pace of life is too hectic as it is, so why would they possibly want to speed up? (Because the race marshals would actually like to leave the course before Midnight, mate!).

7. The stubborn runner– akin to the ‘in denial of health’ runner will, without doubt, run through injury, hurricanes and hail storms; because, after all – “the bigger the challenge, the tougher (physically and mentally) it makes you in the end!” – ‘Mental’ being the key expression there!

This ‘runner breed’ is a complex kind; behaviours include phrases such as “No! – I WILL NOT stop my session just because I’ve been reduced to literally crawling - I’m no failure!” and similar to the ‘Obsessives’ and ‘Over-enthusiasts’, will at times require physical intervention, due to their inability to distinguish when it’s time to stop.

8. The Mileage-Mad runner – lives by their training log and calculator. Such runners take great pleasure in boasting their weekly culmination of covered-distance (although, many are prone to over-exaggerating or even concocting such numbers from mid-air) and in their never-ending quest for mileage perfection, will even resort to clocking up nonsensical athletic trips, such as the customary pre-race jog to the bushes for the call of nature.

The ‘Mileage-Mad’ runners are often heard to ask “But why can’t I do 11 instead of 10 reps? – it’ll make my total figure this week nice and round, then!” and their favourite past-times include relaxing at the end of a hard weeks’ training with their calculator – how sad!

9. The Rule-book runner – will never train without their heart-rate monitor; through fear of approaching the slightest moment of over or under-exertion. These runners literally stick to the ‘rules of running’; which, although appearing to be sensible, actually borders on obsession (yet, this breed must not be mistaken for an ‘obsessive runner’; their hearts rule their heads, rather than vise-versa) and can actually inhibit their progression and performance.

Although ‘Rule-book runners’ stretch prolifically, eat and drink the adequate types and amounts of nutritional foods and supplements and ensure they regularly update their running shoes, they have a tendency to be skint because of this addiction to abiding by the rules and often lose face of what really matters; enjoying themselves!

10. The Pot hunter – travels the length and breadth of the country, in search of trophies and prizes. Typical behaviour comprises the search for most financially and treasure-attractive races at the beginning of each season (followed by swift entry of course) and the pursuit of training specifically, with an aim of attaining such riches.

The epitome of materialistic, the ‘Pot hunters’ solely use their fixation with increasing their possessions as motivation to train and race, and will only compete for a kettle at the very least!

· So there you have it; the 10 types of runners! Hopefully, this insight has been an enjoyable – if eye-opening - read, with moments of sharp self-realisation.
Which type am I....? - A mixture of number 1, 7 and 9 – not a bad combination, if I must say myself!

Whatever happened to...? (written for UK Athletics 08/08).

Ever wondered what the former greats of endurance running have been up to since retiring from their glory days in professional athletics? RUN BRITAIN editor NICOLA BAMFORD did some investigative work and unearthed some intriguing facts on the current lives of some of Britain’s best distance-running living legends.....

Wendy Sly – 1984 Olympic 3000m silver, 1983 World 1500m 5th-place, Number 3 on the British all-time 10,000m road list.

An athlete with immense talent over a variation of distances, Sly was forced to retire through injury in 1990 – aged just 30. Following her departure from international athletics, Sly went into advertising sales for the popular magazine, “Athletics Today” then took the role of Publishing Manager before going into newspaper distribution; a career spanning 15-years in the publishing industry in total. Sly additionally worked as Director of Magazine Marketing for “Reader’s Digest”.

The 48 year-old now runs a sports consultancy and has small-share holdings for sport-related businesses. “I’m back to what I love- sport,” Sly explains, “I have a reasonably flexible working life so I can also work as a Norwich Union mentor with the UK Endurance Initiative and I was also the senior women’s team manager for 2007 European and 2008 World cross-country Championships.”

Sly has one son; Max and has been married for 12-years – she frequently attends the gym for weights and core stability sessions and typically runs 5-times per week.
Alison Wyeth – 1994 Commonwealth 3000m bronze, two-time Olympic and three-time World Championship middle-distance runner.

Another talented female British endurance runner, Wyeth ended her international racing days in 1997 but continued to compete until the year 2000, after giving birth to her first of two children; running a couple of marathons and the odd road and cross-country race.

In 1999, Wyeth took a part-time role with England Athletics as a sports development officer in Burnley. Following this, she worked as a Sports Development Officer at Preston Sports College for a year before becoming the AAA of England Regional Development Co-Ordinator in Preston; working with clubs and grass-roots athletics from the year 2000. In 2003, Wyeth then became the Head of Development at the AAA of England then combined two jobs in 2006; whilst undertaking the England Athletics East Midlands Regional Manager and Performance Manager for the England track and field teams roles.

Now, at aged 44, Wyeth is – and has been since late 2007 – the director for the UK Athletics High Performance Centre (HiPAC) in Birmingham. “It’s a great jo,” Wyeth explains, “I plan meetings with athletes and coaches, work with English Institute of Sport staff and we do a weekly meeting with practionners to make sure everything moves forward with the athletes. I also occasionally go out to watch them train.” Wyeth works with 15 athletes and 5 Paralympic athletes in the West Midlands area.

Married to John Nuthall; a Performance coach for Endurance at the Loughborough HIPAC centre, Wyeth is mother to Hannah 11, Luke 6 and still runs four 50-minute runs per week.

Mike McLeod – 1984 Olympic 10,000m silver, multiple winner of the BUPA Great North Run and number three on the British all-time 5,000m road list.
Arguably one of Britain’s greatest long-distance runners of the 1980’s, McLeod continued to impress well into his forties, when taking the World M40 10,000m road Championship title. Although he now admits “the only racing I do now is to the dinner table!” McLeod still keeps fit with the odd run and tip on his mountain bike – “It’s nice to steady run with people nowadays,” claims the 56 year-old who is also an occasional skin-diver.

McLeod started Abacus Printers; a family-run printing company with wife of 32years, Josephine in 1986 - where they make leaflets, books, letterheads and brochures amongst other things– based in Pelaw, Gateshead. His son, Mark runs recreationally and his younger son, Ryan is a former Great Britain u23 international.

Nick Rose – Set a British 10,000m road record of 27:34 in New Orleans, USA in 1984.
After retiring from professional athletics, Rose spent 12 years in the USA before settling back in Bristol in 1984. He then continued to race professionally on the Veterans circuit before finally calling it a day in 1995. After going back to college to gain a PGCE in Primary education, he has been teaching in the state sector ever since.

Still heavily involved with the sport, Rose is a level 2 distance coach and has been a member of Bristol AC/ Bristol and West for 42 years, “ I still try to run 35-45 a week and I also own a running shop called up and running,” he explains. “I have a wonderful family including my dear wife Christine and children Edward and Alice.”

On his successful time in athletics over the years, Rose continues, “I feel very privileged to have been around during the golden years of British athletics. To have been in the same team as guys like Jonesy, Bedford, Foster, Mcleod, Black, Ford, Goater, Stewart, Spedding, Coe, Ovett, Cram, Moorcroft, Wells, Thompson - I could go on and on. It does sadden me to see the state of British athletics, especially distance running, although the women's side is much healthier. I always look forward to seeing these guys at national events as well as many other acquaintances such as coaches and fans of yesteryear - great memories!!!”

His favourite hobbies now include ‘a good pint of real ale and a bit of the old gardening!!!’

Rob Denmark – 1994 Commonwealth 5,000m gold, 1994 European 5,000m silver, 7th in the 1992 Olympic 5,000m, 1991 World indoor 3000m bronze and set the British 5km road record of 13:30 in Dublin, 1996.

Denmark decided to retire in 2002 after being lapped for the first time in his career in the Commonwealth 10,000m trials at aged 33 but continued to race in smaller competitions until 2005. “I’d reached the end of my shelf life and it was a good place to finish, as it was the same year my dad – who was also my coach – died, it was the right time,” Denmark explains, “I suddenly thought what the hell do I do now?! – I was always interested in landscape gardening so I started my own business and took to it and it did well – it was very different to before but I was used to being my own boss as an athlete. Then I had an itch to get back into athletics so I coached from 2005 and thought I had more to offer the sport ( I’d been in it for 12years – with massive highs and some lows) so applied for the Talent Manager job with UKA. I’d had no interview since aged20 but got it.”

The 39 year-old is now based at the Lee Valley athletics centre in London, where he manages the 12 best u20/u23 athletes in the region to help them fulfil their talent as seniors; claiming it to be a “great job – hard work but very rewarding.” Denmark manages the overview of whole talent programme and co-ordinates the support team; “I bring the athletic glue to it,” he reveals.
Now a new father, Denmark claims he is the “complete opposite to his past” doing “barely any exercise now!”

Charlie Spedding – 1984 London Marathon winner, 1984 Olympic Marathon bronze.
One of Britain’s best ever marathoners, Spedding made his international bow in the 1988 Olympic marathon, where he finished sixth in 2:12.19.

Retiring in 1990, Spedding reveals, “I knew I’d reached my peak and I had lack of desire after 16years in the sport.” He worked for sports company, Nike during his international running days for the promotions team; “The flexible hours helped my training,” he explains.
The 56 year-old now runs a pharmacy in Newcastle – he dabbled with this industry before his athletic career took off– and works 6-days per week. Spedding now enjoys mountain biking and running a couple of times per week.

Ron Hill –European and Commonwealth marathon gold-medallist, three-time Olympic marathoner, 1970 Boston marathon winner.

The epitome of an obsessive – and highly talented runner in his day – Hill has not missed a day of running since December 1964! He started his determined challenge when becoming an established world-class runner and continues today at aged 69 -though he now defines a 'run' somewhat loosely, a source of contention in the loose knit community of running streak enthusiasts; he has established baseline criteria of only one mile 'run', at any pace. Nevertheless, Hill's streak is a benchmark that other such streaks are usually compared against. In his streak, Hill can include workouts after a car crash in 1993 when he broke his sternum, and after bunion surgery, after which he used a crutch for one mile in 27 minutes the next day.

Hill is also the founder of Ron Hill and Hilly clothing company for sports apparel.

Eamonn Martin – 1990 Commonwealth 10,000m Gold; UK Record holder 10,000m 1988-98 27m23.06s; 1993 London marathon winner; 1995 Chicago marathon winner.
Since his retirement, Martin went into Masters Athletics and ran 2:17 in the 1999 London Marathon, as well as running a British over-40 5-miles road record of 23:35 then retired in 2000.
Since then he has worked in a few honorary roles as a Great Britain selector for cross country for 4-years, between 2000 and 2004 and has been England senior men's cross country team manager for the last 7-years, which involves taking a team to about 5 venues around Europe each winter.

Martin continues his honorary career path; “I became Chairman of Basildon Athletic Club in 2005 and still am to date, and I am trying to drive the club forward with 2012 approaching. I also get regular requests to talk at athletics clubs or other associations on a fairly regular basis. I have also done some Eurosport commentaries on London and this year Paris, also.”

Having coached to national and international standard since the late 1990’s, Martin is also due to marry for the second time this September. “My fiancée, Joanne and I are going to Beijing to watch the Olympics this year and we have tickets for all the athletics. I will also celebrate my 50th Birthday in October this year,” Martin explains. “I have 3 Children - two daughters age Lydia 22 and Rosie 19 and a son Eamonn age 15.”

On his current state of fitness, Martin reveals, “I have tried to stay active but had a had a hip resurfacing operation in July this year as it had been deteriorating for the last 3 years or so and prevented me doing so much. I still like to keep fit, run, cycle and I play a lot of tennis.”

Also an avid Tottenham Hotspur supporter and season ticket supporter and cooking enthusiast, Martin – who worked for the Ford Motor Company throughout his running career as a Senior test engineer up until 2001 – currently works for MIRA ltd; an engineering company based in the midlands but with a satellite test facility in Basildon where he lives. Employed at MIRA since 2001, Martin was last year promoted to Faculty Manager.