News

Ware Joggers is celebrating after its latest round of beginners graduated from their 10-week course.

Ware Joggers hosts the Beginners’ Running Course every year, which takes place over 10 weeks and is designed to support those who are new to running, returning after a break, or lacking confidence. The course is open to anyone over the age of 16 and involves walk-run intervals to gradually build up to around 50 minutes of continuous running. Each week included a simple theme covering common beginner topics such as pacing, confidence, footwear, hydration, recovery and motivation, and there are also homework sessions to complete.

For the 2026 intake, a total of 14 beginners graduated, led by experienced club members, Janet Readitt and Caroline Stephens. They received a certificate and a Ware Joggers T-shirt to mark the occasion.

Caroline explained: “Our beginners all had different starting points, some coming back to running after injury or a long break, others have never run before. Some want to just try and get fit or achieve a specific goal.”

Janet added: “We would like to congratulate our beginners for completing the course, and we look forward to welcoming them into the club to further build their running ability.”

Ware Joggers triumphed at a recent 20-mile road race after club member, Michael Waddington, stormed to victory.

 Michael won the race, held by Hillingdon Athletic Club and described as the world’s oldest continuously contested 20-mile road race, following a well-marshalled route on the roads of Ruislip. Beating more than 400 other runners, Michael finished in an impressive time of 1:45:20 and in winning the race, he also set a new Ware Joggers senior record. 

And that wasn’t all for Ware Joggers; Cate Campany, who is the club’s Treasurer, came first in her age category, finishing in a time of 2:56:24. Furthermore, she also set a new Ware Joggers FV60 club record.

There were also strong performances from other Ware Joggers in the Hillingdon 20; Paskell Blackwell crossed the finish line in 2:06:15 and placed third in the M45-49 age category, while Nick Axam finished just three seconds behind, in 2:06:18, and was fourth in the same category. Paskell and Nick were 20^th and 21^st respectively to finish overall. 

A number of Ware Joggers competed in varying distances as part of the Lee Valley Run Fest.

Taking place at the Lee Valley White Water Centre, there was both a half marathon and a 10k distance on offer. The course is designed to be traffic-free, flat, and fast, and head out to the beautiful River Lee country park that surrounds the centre.

In the half marathon, and in her debut at that distance, Harriet Cruickshank (pictured) turned out a hugely impressive performance to be fifth in her age category, F20-29. She was also 16^th female home overall and finished in a time of 1:51:07. Fellow Ware Jogger females were Michelle Cross, putting in a strong performance in 2:06:51, Isla Threlfall, crossing the finish line in a time of 2:06:57, and her mum, Head Coach, Sharon Threlfall, who finished in 2:09:47. Paula Gollop finished in 2:26:40.

For the men, Jamie Long was the first Ware Jogger home, finishing in a time of 1:36:44 while Nick Cheal produced an impressive performance, taking third place in the M70-79 age category, having finished in a time of 2:41:33. 

The 10k race also saw some strong runs from Ware Joggers; Liam Tuck was sixth in the 30-39 age category in a time of 44:42, while Lewis Golbourn recorded a time of 47:40. James Randall was close behind in 47:41, while Nicola Male crossed in 1:0:21

Ware Joggers delivered an impressive set of performances at the TTP Cambridge Half Marathon on Sunday, with a large group of club members taking on the popular 13.1-mile race through the historic streets of Cambridge.

The event attracts around 15,000 runners each year and is known for its scenic route past many of the city’s famous colleges, as well as the electric atmosphere created by thousands of spectators lining the course.

Leading the way for Ware Joggers was Michael Waddington, who produced an outstanding run to finish in 1:07:41, placing 14th overall and first in the M35-39 category.

A strong group of Ware runners followed close behind, with David Craddock (1:15:59), William Caunce (1:16:58), Paskell Blackwell (1:17:12) and Thomas Quinn (1:17:41) all delivering excellent performances in a highly competitive field. Further impressive runs came from Nick Axam (1:18:48), William Breese (1:18:47) and Iain McMurray (1:20:39).

Among the women, Anthea Francis (1:41:15) led the Ware Joggers contingent, followed by strong performances from Jemina Punni (1:48:59) and Cate Campany (1:49:55).

For several club members, the race marked important personal milestones. Suzy Bell celebrated achieving a long-held goal by finishing in 1:54:48, comfortably breaking the two-hour barrier after training for the distance with fellow club members during Sunday morning long runs.

It was also a particularly special day for Jane Bugg, who completed the race in 2:30:29 just ten months after joining Ware Joggers through the club’s beginner programme. Jane credited fellow members for their coaching, encouragement and support in helping her take on the challenge of her first half marathon.

In total, 23 Ware Joggers crossed the finish line, enjoying favourable running conditions and the unique atmosphere that makes the Cambridge Half Marathon one of the UK’s most popular road races.

Such was the scale of the event this year that organisers even temporarily ran out of medals at the finish line, with additional medals later arranged for finishers — a testament to the huge turnout for the sold-out race.

With strong performances across the field, several personal achievements, and a fantastic club turnout, it was another proud day for Ware Joggers at one of the UK’s most celebrated half marathon events.

Olympic gold medal sprinter, Christine Ohuruogu, put Ware Joggers members through their paces when she led a recent training session.

Christine, an Olympic gold and double World Champion 400m runner, visited Ware Joggers at its HQ at Wodson Park, in Ware, for a track training session, where she put 32 club members through their paces with an extended drills session and activation stretches, before setting them a 20-minute ‘blind’ Fartlek session. The session finished off with Christine giving runners the chance to try on her Olympic medal haul.

Head Coach, Sharon Threlfall, who organised the event, commented: “It was certainly a special night for Ware Joggers, and the plan is for Christine to return later in the year. We were delighted with the turnout of club members and Christine reported that we have created something special at the club with warmth and atmosphere.”

Ware Joggers has placed second overall in the annual cross country league.

The local league involves Ware Joggers, Harlow Running and Tri Club, Saffron Striders, and Bishop’s Stortford Running Club across four fixtures between December and February, with winners for each race, along with an overall league winner at the end of the four races.

Saffron Striders hosted the last race of the season, in which Ware Joggers’ men’s team came in first place, while the female team placed second. When the scores across all four races were collated, this placed Ware Joggers second overall, behind Bishop’s Stortford, which won the overall title, as well as the men’s and ladies titles.

Marking the end of the season, individual awards were also announced by Co-captains, Anthea and Kevin Francis, in recognition of their contribution to the series. Timothy Brignall won the Man of the Series title, while Harriet Cruickshank, in her debut season for Ware Joggers cross country, was awarded Lady of the Series. Furthermore, awards are given out across the clubs in a number of age categories, with Ware Jogger, Pamela Wilson, winning the V65 award.

Ware Joggers Cross Country Co-Captain, Kevin Francis, commented: "This is the first time in many years we have finished second, but this reflects what a healthy and competitive league it is across the clubs. It was brilliant to see Bishop’s Stortford showing up with good numbers and performing so well and we congratulate them on their win.”

Anthea Francis, fellow Co-Captain, added: "We would like to thank all our runners for turning out with such enthusiasm across the races, and for contributing to such a great cross country season. We’re already looking forward to competing in the next series.”

Ware Joggers recorded an eighth place finish at the Hatfield 5m as club members turned out in force to race.

Vincent Riviere crossed the finish line in eighth place, and the seventh male finisher, in an impressive chip time of 27:30. He was placed second in the M45 age group. Vincent was followed closely by Kevin Francis, who came in 12^th place overall in a time of 27:45. The third member back, finishing 20^th overall, was Paskell Blackwell in a time of 28:33. Ware Joggers founder Terry Nichols won the M80 age category in a time of 57:05.

There was also an impressive performance from the Ware Joggers women. Marianne Mitchell was the first female Ware Jogger back in a time of 35:16, placing second in the F50 age group. She was closely followed by Anthea Francis in 36:45. Cate Campany, representing the F60 category, finished in 37:38 and took second place in her age group. Pamela Wilson topped the F70 age group in a time of 39:00. Isla Threlfall recorded an impressive second place in the U20s category with a time of 44:12, also lowering the Ware Joggers junior record that has stood since 1988.

It was a successful day for medals too, with County Championship medals awarded across multiple age categories:

• Terry Nichols – gold, M80 category
• Pamela Wilson – gold, F65 category
• Vincent Riviere – bronze, M40 category
• Colin Naman – bronze, M75 category
• Men’s Vets Team Silver – Vincent Riviere, Kevin Francis, Paskell Blackwell and Matt Brown

Several Ware Joggers club records were broken at the race. Cate Campany lowered the FV60 record to 37:38. Pamela Wilson reduced the FV70 record to 39:00. Marianne Mitchell lowered the FV50 record to 35:16.

The Ware Festival of Running is delighted to have donated an incredible £12,000 to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance following this year’s races.

The 10 mile, 10k and children's races that forms the festival took place on July 6 and attracted some 650 runners, with 100 per cent of the proceeds donated to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. The £12,000 donated to the charity this year takes the total raised over the years for the cause to an incredible £91,000.

The 10 mile race was won by Harry Kutner, of Ware Joggers, in an impressive time of 1:01:16. Will Edwards, of Hertford RC, won the 10k race in a time of 38.55. Meanwhile, the first woman back in the 10 mile race was Emma Cowper, of Bishops Stortford Running Club, in a time of 01:05:19, and Tabitha Woodhouse, from Herts Pheonix RC, won the 10K in 36.31.

Ware Festival of Running Race Director, Jill Patel, commented: “We were delighted to be able to donate such a fantastic amount of money to Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, which is such an important cause for the local area. We would like to thank all those who supported the event this year, from the runners who took part to our fantastic team of volunteers and all our sponsors – the event would not be possible without you all. The Ware Festival of Running is a huge team effort from Ware Joggers, and we look forward to seeing you all again in July 2026.”

Charlotte Evans, Senior Fundraising Coordinator at Essex & Herts Air Ambulance, added: "We are incredibly grateful to Ware Joggers for their continued support of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. Their dedication over the years, from 2008 to today, has made a real difference to our life-saving work. This year’s amazing £12,000 donation from the Festival of Running will help us respond to emergencies and save lives across Essex and Hertfordshire. We’re inspired by their commitment and proud to have such passionate supporters by our side."

After a hard-fought season of races, Ware Joggers has crowned the winners of its Championship season.

The 2024/25 Championship was a series of races over varying distances, in which club members competed in a number of different leagues. Organised by Race Secretary, Colin Naman, the season closed with the Ware Joggers Memorial Mile, held at Wodson Park, in Ware, in the summer. The winners of the season were crowned at a special presentation evening held recently, which saw Nick Axam win the men’s title and Pam Wilson took the women’s title. After a hugely strong season, Pam Wilson also won the Masters Champion award. 

League winners were:

• Premier - Nick Axam
• League 1 - Jamie Higgs
• League 2 - Paul Brennan
• League 3 - Clive Smith
• League 4 - Sue Taylor
• League 5 - Jeanette Marshall
• League 6 - Carolyn Gee

Members were also recognised for their services both to the club and the local community. The Chairman’s Award, presented by Chairman, Paul Cocklin, went to Jill Patel, the Race Director for the Ware Festival of Running, which to date has raised more than £90,000 for the Essex & Herts Air Ambulance. The Joggers Jogger Award, given to the member who has gone above and beyond for the club, went to Russell Cook for his work on the club's social media and running club sessions. And Jamie Higgs was awarded the Coaches Award, presented by Coaching Co-ordinator, Sharon Threlfall, for his commitment to supporting the club’s training sessions. 

Entry for this year's Handicap Series is now open. Please enter here ASAP
Handicap Race Series - 2025

Ware Joggers has won the annual cross country league for the sixth time in a row.

The local league involves Ware Joggers, Harlow Running and Tri Club, Saffron Striders, and Bishop's Stortford Running Club across four fixtures between December and February, with winners for each race, along with an overall league winner at the end of the four races.

Ware Joggers hosted the last race of the season on February 2, in which both the club's male and female teams secured first place. This also placed the club first overall for the last race. Taking into account scores across all four races, Ware Joggers secured the winner's title for the whole season, marking the sixth year in a row they have won the overall title, as well as the men's title. And it marks an incredible eighth year in a row that the Ware Joggers women's team has won the title. 

Ware Joggers' men's team secured an impressive seven finishers within the top 10, with Ian Perrins winning the race, followed by David Craddock in second and Harry Kutner in third. For the women's team, Katy Woodward was the first female back overall, while Marianne Mitchell was second place female, followed by Christina Tungatt in fourth place and third Ware Jogger female back.

Marking the end of the season, individual awards were also announced. David Craddock won the Senior title, while Ware Joggers' Andrew Mynott won the V40 category, and fellow Jogger, Kevin Sambridge, took V50. Saffron Striders runner, Ian MacDougall, won the V60 award, while John Tennant, of Harlow Running and Tri Club, was awarded the V70 category.

For the women's awards, Fiona Smith won the Senior title for Ware Joggers, while fellow Ware Jogger, Katy Woodward, was awarded V35. Marianne Mitchell, also running for Ware Joggers, won the V45 accolade. Vicky Simpson, for Bishop's Stortford, took the V55 award, and Ware Jogger, Pamela Wilson, scooped the V65 award.

Ware Joggers Cross Country Co-Captain, Kevin Francis, commented: "We are delighted to have won our fifth overall title in a row, which is testament to the talent and dedication within our club. We thank all our runners who turned out this year to brave the mud and help us field such a large and committed team."

Anthea Francis, fellow Co-Captain, added: "We have seen some brilliant performances from Ware Joggers across all four races, and we couldn't achieve the success we do without each and every one of our runners."

Ware Joggers are currently top of the leaderboard as the annual cross country league enters its final race.

The local league sees Ware Joggers compete against Harlow Running and Tri Club, Saffron Striders, and Bishop's Stortford Running Club in four fixtures between December and February, with winners for each race, along with an overall league winner at the end of the four races.

The 2024/25 season kicked off at Bishop's Stortford, followed by races hosted by Harlow Running and Tri Club and Saffron Striders, with the latter race seeing Ware Joggers' male and female teams taking first place. This puts both teams in top place, as well as overall, ahead of the final race, being hosted by Ware Joggers.

The race saw Ware Joggers men take first, second and third place, with David Craddock, Harry Kunter, and Ian Perrins crossing the finish line respectively. Meanwhile, for the women, Katy Woodward was first to cross the finish line, followed by Marianne Mitchell in third place and Christina Tungatt in fifth.

There were some impressive performances as many Ware Joggers took to the start line of the Stevenage Marathon.

The marathon route comprised a two-lap course including the Lamex Stadium, home of Stevenage FC, Fairlands Valley Park and parts of the town centre.

The first Ware Jogger home was Stephen Argent in an impressive chip time of 3.29, followed by Andrew Biggs in 3.35. Phil Earle also came in under four hours, recording a time of 3.45, closely followed by Jamie Higgs, finishing in 3.49. Also crossing the finishing line was Jonathan Hall in 4.03, while the first female Ware Jogger back was Melanie Blackaby in 4.16, followed by Robert O'Hara in 4.37 and Paula Gollop in 4.47.

The event also played host to the Stevenage Half Marathon, with strong performances from Alex Chappell, clocking an impressive time of 1.43, and James Morgan, finishing in 1.51.

Ware Joggers recorded a second place finish at the recent Run the River 10k race.

Nick Axam was the second runner to cross the finish line at the race in Edmonton, in a speedy chip time of 35.58. And that wasn’t all; Matt Brown came in third place overall, in a time of 36.58, followed by Neil Bull, who crossed in fifth place in a time of 38.51, also winning the MV40 category, giving Ware Joggers three top five finishers.

For the women, Kat Dobson put in an incredible performance to finish as the second female back and in 18^th place overall, crossing the line in a chip time of 42.19, while Cate Company was 39^th overall in a time of 46.54 and also won the FV50 category.

Ware Joggers also dominated with a number of awards, including:

• Pamela Wilson won the FV60 category, in a time of 48.46.
• Alan Taylor was the winner of the MV50, finishing in 42.32.

Commenting on the results, Colin Naman, Fixtures Secretary at Ware Joggers, said: “It was great to see such a good turnout of Ware Joggers at the third race in our Championship series, with a number of PBs recorded across many age categories, not to mention age category awards given to our members. Congratulations to all who took part.”

There were 30 Ware Joggers taking part in the race, which formed part of the club’s Championship schedule.

Image credit: Graham Smith Photography 

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Ware Joggers have had a fantastic time at the Hatfield 5K series so far!

In Race 1, club members David and Liam finished 2nd and 3rd respectively on the night in a strong field packed with talent from local running clubs.

Kev achieved the highest men's age grade percentage score.

Together, David, Liam, Kev, and Tim also bagged the 3rd place team award.

At Race 2, some of our members were crowned Herts Vets Championship winners: Beverley McLees (2nd), Pamela Wilson (3rd), Terry Nichols (1st), and Steve Argent (3rd) in their respective age categories.

A special congratulations to all award winners!

New Championship Race announced!

Part of the 2024-2025 championship season will include the Perrivale 5 mile race – a fast, flat, 2-lap course with a unique finish on the athletics stadium track.

The traditional 5-mile road race has been a fixture in the London Borough of Ealing since 1998.

Entry Link : https://events.kronosports.uk/event/416?fbclid=IwY2xjawEmqqpleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHdxoweWY0PKGAQUPKes6nWAwDvmrckX6cLQKpruXHD0tzRrX-q2G2SIO0g_aem_WplOOumfineJoc86DK6Ssg

Get ready for the 2024/2025 Championship season!

With last year's season complete, all eyes are looking forward to the coming season.

Race 1 will be your best time from our 3 race Handicap Series.

https://form.jotform.com/240156207649053

Races that will also be included are:

Hatfield 5k (best time from three)

https://my.raceresult.com/277948/registration 

and 

Run the River (hosted by Edmonton Running Club)

https://englandathletics.sport80.com/public/wizard/e/27771/home

Sign up soon to avoid disappointment!

Entry to the final race of the championship season - race twelve - is now open.

Please sign up using the link on the website: 

https://www.ware-joggers.co.uk/races/championship/champ.php?action=fixtures

The Ware Joggers Memorial Mile is open to all club members.

The Ware Joggers delivered an impressive performance at Hatfield Broad Oak 10K race, showcasing the depth and talent within the club. From the front runners to those further down the pack, every runner gave their all, contributing to a strong overall presence in the event.

Top Performers

Andrew Mynott led the charge for Ware Joggers, finishing 5th overall with a remarkable gun time of 34:48 (net time 34:46). His performance earned him 2nd place in the M40 category, highlighting his consistency and strength in competitive running.

Neil Bull also put in a strong performance, finishing 29th overall and 9th in the M40 category with a gun time of 38:51 (net time 38:48). Close behind was Russell Cook, who came in 33rd overall with a gun time of 39:30 (net time 39:23), securing 17th in the Senior U40 category.

Solid Mid-Pack Efforts

Notable mid-pack efforts include Jamie Higgs, who finished 41st overall and 13th in the M40 category with a gun time of 40:10 (net time 40:06). Andrew Biggs and Stephen Argent also performed well, finishing 79th and 81st overall respectively, with Andrew achieving a time of 42:04 (net time 41:54) and Stephen clocking in at 42:05 (net time 41:55), placing 21st in the M40 and 4th in the M60 categories respectively.

Kat Dobson was the first female finisher from the Ware Joggers, securing 10th place in the female division and 5th in the W40 category with a gun time of 43:51 (net time 43:41).

Consistent Performances Across All Categories

The club also had several members who performed consistently across various categories. Anthea Francis and Peter Baker showed strong performances, with Anthea finishing 171st overall and 11th in the W40 category with a gun time of 46:00 (net time 45:42), and Peter finishing 168th overall and 8th in the M60 category with a gun time of 45:51 (net time 43:50).

Cate Campany and Nicola Tilley both had notable finishes in the W50 category, with Cate finishing 252nd overall and 9th in her category (gun time 48:40, net time 48:22) and Nicola coming in 308th overall and 12th in her category (gun time 50:17, net time 49:02).

Supportive Team Efforts

Further back in the field, the Ware Joggers demonstrated the spirit of teamwork and perseverance. Jeanette Collins and Sharon Threlfall finished 679th and 744th respectively, showing determination and resilience in the W60 and W40 categories. Phil Hudson and Roger Partridge finished 763rd and 773rd in the M60 category, underscoring the club's depth in the senior categories.

The club's final finisher, Laurence Watson, crossed the line in 1000th place with a gun time of 1:16:06 (net time 1:14:45), competing in the M70 category.

Conclusion

The Ware Joggers showcased a strong team performance with standout individual achievements and consistent efforts across various age categories. The camaraderie and support among club members were evident, reflecting the club’s ethos of promoting fitness and community spirit. Congratulations to all the Ware Joggers who participated and represented the club with pride.

24 May 2024 - The Ware Joggers had an outstanding performance at yesterday's Hertfordshire Mid-week League Division Two race, showcasing their skill and endurance. With 44 runners representing our club, we demonstrated a strong presence and competitive spirit.

Home Event Success

This event, held at our home course, was impeccably organised, thanks to the 50 dedicated club representatives who volunteered to ensure everything ran smoothly. Their efforts highlighted the community spirit and organisational prowess that define Ware Joggers.

Race Highlights

Following last week's event in Stevenage, this race marked the second in the league. Here are some of the standout performances:

• Andrew Mynott led the charge for Ware Joggers, finishing 5th overall with a time of 33:18. Andrew also secured 2nd place in the V40 category.
• Liam Struwe closely followed, securing 6th position overall with a time of 33:26.
• Kevin Sambridge excelled in the V50 category, finishing 7th overall and 1st in his category with a time of 33:32.
• Katy Woodward delivered an impressive performance, finishing 2nd in the women's race.

Notable Mentions

• David Craddock finished 12th overall, showcasing his strong performance with a time of 34:30.
• James Croft, another V40 runner, crossed the line in 21st place with a time of 35:32. This race was James Croft's first representing Ware Joggers.
• Paul Threlfall also participated in his first race for Ware Joggers, marking an important milestone for the club.

Current Standings

After two rounds, Ware Joggers are in third place with a total of 15 points. This strong position reflects the hard work and dedication of all our runners and supporters.

Looking Ahead

The next race in the league is scheduled to be hosted by Royston Runners on 4 June 2024. We encourage everyone to keep training hard and to continue supporting each other.

Keep running strong, Ware Joggers!

Hello Ware Joggers,

I am very happy to let you all know that Sharon Threlfall has agreed to take on the role of Training Coordinator for Ware Joggers. This is a very important role for the club and Sharon will be able to build upon the work of Jess and Wayne Baxter as well as her own efforts over the last months.

The role specification is currently being finalised with Sharon and will be posted on the website once completed.

I am sure you will join me in wishing Sharon the very best in this role and will give her the support she will need to be successful in it.

Martin Sillitto

Chairperson Ware Joggers

The annual reports are now available to view online prior to our AGM

Please got to the "Members Area" of our website and follow the link to read them at your leisure :)

TUESDAY MORNING TRACK

Due to the increasing popularity of this session the club have decided to pay Wodson directly for exclusive use of the track.

As of 18th April you will now pay Ware Joggers at trackside for the session.

. Payment will be by card only

. Do not pay at Wodson reception, you can go direct to track

. Please ensure you tick your name of the checklist when you have made payment

As a result we are able to reduce the rates as follows:

. Full Ware Jogger members £2 (was £3)

. Guests £4 (was £5:50)

Hi Folks,

It’s us again I’m afraid!

The response for volunteers so far has been really great and we have over 90 happy smiling people ready for the 3^rd

Unfortunately we need 120 to make the event the success we all want it to be.

So...can you help on the day, do you have a partner, parent, friend, child (over 16) who is ready willing and able to help?

Please let us know if you can help either via Facebook or email marshals@ware10s.co.uk .

Thank you in advance for your help

Your friendly Marshal Co-ordinators

Martin & Judy Sillitto

WARE FESTIVAL OF RUNNING

Just a quick plea to all members. We have sent a large number of emails to people who have marshalled the Ware Tens in the past requesting their kind help again this year but several have told us they missed our mails as they went into junk/spam. Could we ask that everyone has a check in their junk mail boxes to see if they have missed one.

We have received an amazing number of wonderful offers of support but are still about 20-30 short so if anyone has a change of plans and can help or can offer husbands, wives, partners or other relatives to help that would still be very much appreciated.

Those who have volunteered will be hearing from us in due course regarding marshalling positions but until we have the full numbers it is difficult to finalise positions so please bear with us. 

Many , many thanks again,

Judy & Martin

Hi Folks,

After one week we have had an amazing response to our request for marshals and we now have 68 happy people in the team!

The bad news is that in total we need 120 people to help make sure that the Ware Festival of Running is the success it has been in other years.

So...PLEASE can we have more to come and join our happy band of volunteers.

Volunteers don’t have to be members so if you have mothers, fathers, partners, children, etc. who would like to come and help with this great charity event let us know and we will add them to our list.

Let us know either below or at marshals@ware10s.co.uk, or via Facebook Messenger or to either of us in person.

Thank you all in advance

Martin & Judy Sillitto

Hi Folks,

What’s the next best thing after running? Marshalling of course! If you’ve never tried it why not see for yourself. We need LOTS of helpers for the Ware Festival of Running on Sunday 3^rd July. The feedback from previous years tells us we have quite literally the best marshals anywhere. Do you want to be part of this amazing team?

What does this mean we hear you ask? Well we need help in lots of areas including those listed below:

• Marshalling the course

• Car Park

• Refreshments

• Start/Finish

• Kids Races

• Registration

• Anything else………...

PLEASE let us know ASAP if you can help in any way and please ask partners/family if they would like to join us in helping to put on an amazing event for the local community.

It might seem a long way away but 3^rd July will soon be upon us and we want this year to be even better than previous years.

Please come forward and let us know either below or at marshals@ware10s.co.uk,or via Facebook Messenger or to either of us in person.

Thank you all in advance

Martin & Judy Sillitto

Just in case you have some spare time over the weekend I thought I'd remind you of the Ware Joggers Survey we sent out earlier in January.

PLEASE take a few minutes to complete this and send it through as we really want to get the opinions of as many people as possible.

Thank you to those who have submitted something and in advance to those who have just been waiting for this little nudge!!

Thanks

Martin - on behalf of all of the Committee

New Club Session

With the changing work patterns and the increasing number of retired members it was felt that we as a club need to offer the membership an additional option to the Tuesday/Thursday evening sessions. Fortunately, we have a readymade solution which is already proving very popular. Paul Reddaway is currently running Tuesday morning track sessions commencing at 9AM and is more than happy to open these sessions up to the club as a whole. These are pay as you go sessions and payments should be made direct to Wodson reception on each attendance. If you wish to attend there is no need to book, just turn up ready to run.

A number of people have assumed that as EA Fees show as an option for payment in MemberMojo that these are due now.  These are only due if you haven't paid already for the year ending March 31st 2022, but EA membership is not compulsory.

To check if you have paid EA - or Wodson - fees (assuming you want to sign up for either) then you can check:  

Log on to MemberMojo
Click on Your Membership at the top.
Click on "View Payments"
This will show you payments made.
If you haven't paid EA or Wodson since March 2021 then they are due.
If you have then they are not!!

Hope this helps

Martin

Hi Folks

There has been a little confusion over Wodson Fees between now and the end of March 2022. Following a discussion with Wodson I can now confirm that the fees are as they have been on MemberMojo:

• Until end December 2021 = £20 (£15.50 Concession)
• From 1st Jan - 31st March 2022 = £10 (£7.50 Concession)

Apologies for any confusion.

Martin

Championship Update

Here are my plans for the remaining races of our championship season.

Race 7 - Sunday 06 March 2022 - Berkhamsted Rotary Half Marathon Race not open yet but organisers will email me as soon as it is.

Race 8 - Sunday in late March Braintree 5M - No exact date as yet

Race 9 - Sunday 10 April 2022 St Clare Hospice 10K - Date confirmed and open for entries now at: https://stclarehospice.org.uk/event/st-clare-10k-april-2022/

Race 10 - Sunday in April High Easter 10K - No exact date as yet

Race 11 - Sunday in May Great Baddow 10Mile - No exact date as yet

Race 12 - Friday 17 June 2022 Ware Joggers Memorial Mile Provisional Date Only

Renewal of club membership is due from April 1st 2021. 

EA membership is also due from the 1st April. 

You can follow this link to go to membermojo to renew your membership. https://membermojo.co.uk/warejoggers

Instructions on how to do this are attached.

It is expected that the club will reopen fully when lockdown ends in June although some activities may resume before this time.

Wodson Park membership will become payable when the club reopens fully.

We are planning to re-open the club for General Runs only from Thursday 30th July 2020.

We have carried out a risk assessment for meetings which will initially take place on the grassed area outside of Wodson Park.

Toilets will be open for runners to use but belongings may not be left inside. All subs will be paid online - see attached form for details.

Please download a copy of the attached form, sign it and bring it with you to say you agree with our Covid 19 Safety Rules.

We are currently unable to offer training sessions but will reinstate these when it is safe to do so.

We look forward to seeing you.

In response to members enquiries about when the club hopes to reconvene and what we can do about training and coaching, the committee thought it would be useful to give you an update

The current rules specify that you can exercise or play sport in groups of up to six people but they must be 2 metres apart at all times. Sadly this does not apply to some of our members are at higher risk or are who are shielding. Wearing a mask or face covering doesn't apply to exercise outdoors.
You will probably have seen that the Wodson track is opening from 4th July but it is not available in the evenings. The earliest possible date for reopening leisure centres like Wodson is mid July.
As you know we have over 300 members and on club nights we often see as many as 100 runners.  So at present we are not proposing to reconvene as a club because of the difficulties involved with both selecting and stewarding small groups.
The Club Championship will be beginning shortly starting with carefully planned virtual races. These must be pre entered. race 1 entry is available now vis Facebook or the entry link on the website.Closing date for entries is July 24th.
We are keen to reconvene as soon as we are able and we will keep you all posted with progress.
Rob Waddingham (Chairperson)

This year we will be holding our AGM using Zoom on Thursday 18th June at 7pm.

We will be electing our committee for the coming year and presenting our club accounts and reports.

All members are invited to attend. Please check your emails in the days before for the link to the meeting.

Cross Country starts on 15th December with our own Ware Joggers event.

****Run, Marshal, Bake cakes****

The Spring marathon season has been busy for Ware Joggers and this weekend they took on the challenge of participating in The London Marathon, possible the most famous running event in the world.  With the change of weather providing cooler temperatures which were perfect for running the 32 Ware Joggers took their place behind the elite runners including Eliud Kipchoge, Sir Mo Farah, Brigid Kosgei lining up alongside celebrities such as Chris Evans, Adam Woodyatt, Helen Skelton, Jenny Falconer and Kirsty Gallagher at the start lines in Blackheath.  Once over the start line, with the inevitable adrenaline finally unleashed, Joggers followed the route with over 40,000 other runners through Greenwich to Tower Bridge and on to The Isle of Dogs where they were cheered on by over 50 of their fellow Ware Joggers who were marshalling this part of the route.

All Ware Joggers managed to finish the course with Michael Waddington achieving a superb time of 2:37:32; Kevin Francis 2:38:32. Other notable times included Iain McMurray 3:09:40; Liam Amatruda 3:44:10; Lindsay Russell-Smith 3:26:08; Kerri Whitelegg-Spavin 3:32:26; Adam Guest 3:48:45, Lisa Roberts 3:52:34 and Debbie Amies 4:14:51. The following Ware Joggers who participated at London achieved the following times; Paul Cecil 5:04:15, Sharon Threlfall 4:38:48 Liz Davey 8:14, Kimberley Devonshire 5:17:00, Colin Grace 4:17:27, Corrine Law 5:31:22, Sophie Marshall 4:21:26, Beverley Mclees 3:45:49, Marianne Mitchell 4:23:32, Nicholas Sansom 3:47:29, Hazel Winters 7:41:40, Marisa Sharkey 5:56:13 and Duncan Gray 4:05:13.

Further afield, Garth Morris recently set a new VM55 club record when he completed the Boston marathon in a stunning time of 3:13:12 and Nick Kenyan-Muir a new VM50 record in a time of 3:08:01 at the Brighton Marathon.

On a different level, Rob Jones completed his second Marathon des Sables, finishing  the  six stages of the 156miles in a time of 42:58:13.

So far this season, over 50 Joggers have completed marathons including London, Vienna, Manchester, Brighton and Boston with many superbly supported by Club Coach Jan Stock’s bespoke training plans and insightful advice on nutrition and techniques to help club members prepare for their events.

30 Ware Joggers, accompanied by family and friends, chose a weekend away from the cold and rain of the UK to take part in the Valencia marathon and 10K races. The day dawned with late Autumn Spanish sunshine providing great conditions for running and the setting of the beautiful City of Arts and Sciences made the event even more perfect. The 22,000 runners began by crossing the Pont de Montiolevet and ran down towards the marina, on through the pancake flat streets of Valencia passing the passionate cheering crowds and numerous groups of Latino drummers. The latter stages of the race took runners alongside sections of the Turia river bed, around the old town centre passing by the Palace of the Marquis of Dos Aguas and back towards the City of Arts and Sciences.

As runners approach the finish line they run down the blue path in the centre of the pools which sit alongside the Musée des Sciences. The enthusiasm and encouragement, from the huge number of spectators who line the route at this point, is second to none and the emotions experienced by many runners is intense. A number of Ware Joggers mentioned crossing the finish line with tears in their eyes.

Ware Joggers marathoners produced some amazing results with Michael Waddington breaking a club record in a time of 2:40:19. Jon Williams and Mark Cyl also finished in under 3hrs with times of 2:54:30 and 2:59:25 respectively. All club members finished the race, many with new personal best times; Garth Morris 3:24:19, Kerri Spavin 3:37:57, Jack Whitelegg 3:37:57, Lisa Roberts 3:44:00, Kenny Blythe 3:49:18, Beverley Mclees 3:51:12, Anthea Francis 3:55;06, Lorraine Oakley 3:56:20, Ewa Merlo 3:59:49, Paul Brennan 4:00:44, Sam Rowe 4:14:15, Joanne Gladding 4:23:30, Barry O’Connor 4:19:27, Michelle Cross 4:29:17, Annalisa Williams 4:32:35, Carol Hayward 4:49:36, Christel Ainge 4:51:24, Marsha Jenkins 4:54:28 and Clare Watson 5:36:44.

Following the success of the Ware Festival of Running in July, which saw more than 650 runners take on the 10 mile and 10K courses, Ware Joggers were able to present large cheques to their two charities, Essex and Herts Air Ambulance and Southern Maltings. The record fundraising was very much due to the support of key sponsors Blue Square, Network Homes and Peter David Homes.

Ware Joggers Chairman, Robert Waddingham, together with some members of the organising team were able to present cheques for £4,000 to each of the charities. The Ware Joggers long time charity partner, Essex and Herts Air Ambulance, receives no government funding and relies on charity donations to provides pre-hospital emergency services to the people of Essex, Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.  Each life-saving mission costs just over £2,700 and with an average of six each day, the cheque was very warmly received. The two hundred year old Southern Maltings has recently been refurbished and is now the creative centre of the town. The money will be used to continue the ongoing development and refurbishment of the building.

Planning for next year’s Festival of Running is already in progress and with Herts Regional College on board as a key sponsor the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Registrations will open in January, ready for those new year resolutions! More details are available on the race website www.ware10s.co.uk

The 40 Ware Joggers who arrived for the recent Stevenage Half Marathon were the largest entry from any club participating in the event. The course runs along cycle paths and through the picturesque Fairlands Valley Park, up across the ridge of the park and down along Six Hills Way, taking in many of the underpasses around the town and creating a challenging undulating two lap route.

The course however appeared to provide very little challenge to Michael Waddington who continued his rise through the Ware Joggers' club championship by coming first in a time of 1:13:17 over four minutes in front of the second runner. In achieving thius time he broke a Ware Joggers' Half Marathon club record for a senior runner which has stood for 29yrs. Those marshaling the course commented that Michael looked as though he was out for a casual Sunday morning run on his own as he passed them by on his solitary stroll to victory. Michael also achieved the Herts County award for winning the race, the senior age category award and a mens team award and Herts County Men's Team award.

Ware Joggers' men Michael Waddington, Mark Cyl, 1:27:46, Neil Bull 1:26:25 and Jon Williams 1:21:29 took home the men's team award and the Herts County Men's Team Award.

Anne Ramsden was the W60 winner 1:57:06 and Margaret Waddingham the W70 winner 2:15:27.

Ware Joggers - Run the River

On one of the wettest Autumn mornings so far, over 50 Ware Joggers arrived at Lee Valley Sports and Leisure Centre to compete in the Run the River 10K as part of their current championship league. The race, which took runners out via Pickett’s Lock along the river at Edmonton and through part of Lee Valley Regional Park, provided ample opportunity for many Ware Joggers to perform at their best. Michael Waddington won the race setting a new course record in a time of 33:35. The front bike marshal commented that he struggled to stay ahead of him because he was so fast! Beverley McLees came in as third lady in a time of 45:42.

Other successes included Paul Reddaway who was first VM50 in a time of 39:03. Lisa Roberts who was first VW45 in a time of 47:19, Emily Reid who was third VW35 - 51:26, Michelle Cross who was second VW45 - 52:07, Teresa Weedon who was second WV55 - 53:03, and Neil Bull who was third VM40 – 39:34. 

Over 40 Ware Joggers are currently training to take part in the Valencia marathon which takes place in early December as well as preparing alongside other club members for their cross country season which also begins in December.

While a number of Ware Joggers explore the western parts of Morocco on the annual club trek, many of those remaining in the cooler and wetter climes of the UK joined over 300 other runners to take part in the Harlow 10m race organised by Harlow Running Club. The multi terrain gently undulating course followed quiet country lanes and cycle tracks near Church Langley, past Latton Common and through part of Harlow Park before bringing runners into the finish on the running track at Mark Hall Sports Centre. Once again a number of Joggers were among the winners with Michael Waddington taking second place in a time of 56:35. Michael Waddington, Kevin Francis, and Mark Ford were the first men’s team home and Anne Ramsden scooped the VW65 ladies trophy with a time of 1:30:56. Ware Joggers Sharon Thelfall, Beverley Mclees and Paula Gollop were the second ladies team past the finish line.

Ware Joggers started their new championship season with a bang this weekend when over 30 members joined approximately 500 other runners to participate in the Hyde Park 10k Summer Series.  The fast, flat route took runners on a two-lap course through Hyde Park starting at the historic bandstand and running alongside the Serpentine and the parade ground before passing  the Holocaust Memorial, Little Nell statue and Serpentine Lodge.  With temperatures significantly lower than recent weeks, the race provided an opportunity for numerous PBs and excellent performances from many members of the club.

Michael Waddington came first in a time of 34:21 with Oscar Bell coming in fourth in a time of 36:43  There was also age category success for Paul Reddaway who was first MV50 with a time of 39:00 and Margaret Waddingham who won the FV70 category in a time of 1:02:29.  As many Ware Joggers begin to train for Autumn marathons, their 2018-2019 championship will continue with the Hatfield 5km series and Harlow 10m in the next few weeks.

Presentation Evening 

Championship Awards

Kevin Francis scoops the prizes

Club colours awards

Race to the King 

With a 4am start on race day to allow time to prepare equipment, the race began at 7am from the Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen, the main tourist spot on the island. Having swum like fighting fish, across the 2.4 mile two-lap swim course, they swiftly transitioned to the 112-mile bike course, which is well known for its challenging 20mph headwinds and amazing views. With the 36-degree temperatures, desert-like conditions and an ascent of over 2,551 metres it is easy to see why this course is known as the toughest in the world.

The full marathon distance running section took competitors along the thankfully flat sea front of Puerto del Carmen before leading up to Arrecife and back and then to Matagorda and back. This aspect of the race has the impressive support of thousands of spectators lining the streets as competitors pass beautiful views of the ocean under the intense Lanzarote sun.

Many of the Ware Joggers who participated said that the experience was both absolutely gruelling as well as highly challenging and emotional. All have commented on the comradeship and support from one another throughout their training and the absolute delight of being at the start line together. 

Jack Whitelegg said “It really was so much more than a marathon or any other event I've trained for. In many ways it was life changing and I still haven’t quite taken it all in.”

Mike Holliday added “What an amazing experience! Simply brilliant, loved every minute of the day and it made all the blood, sweat and tears of training worth it.’

Keith Williams talked of their journey “The last 12 months with these incredible guys has been the best journey and to be all together at the start line of the toughest Ironman out there was just the best.... and seeing them out on the course going through their ‘moments’ with their families cheering them to the finish line was just one of those life experiences you won’t forget”

 Mark Cyl summed up the experience with “Together we have created a lifelong memory that I can cherish with joy, forever.”

All the Ware Joggers Ironmen expressed massive thanks and love to their families for their immeasurable support and commitment throughout the days and weeks of training and during the event.

Lanzarote's Ironman, was brought to the island from Hawaii by Danish legend Kenneth Gasque in 1992 (pictured with the Ware Jogger Ironmen). The race continues to be one of the most fabled events in the Ironman calendar and Kenneth Gasque has shaken the hand of every finisher since the introduction of the race. Ware Joggers Magnificent Seven Ironmen results are as follows - Mark Cyl 14:39:05, Andrew Tait 12:00:19, Martin Blacker 16:36:03, Jack Whitelegg 13:35:06, Keith Williams 12:38:18, Mike Holliday 13:42:16, Howard Roden 12:39:47. An amazing achievement.

As the Spring marathon season neared its close, 23 Ware Joggers took on the challenge of participating in one of the most famous running events in the world.  With temperatures rising steadily from 9am to make this the hottest London Marathon on record, Joggers took their places at the start lines in Blackheath.  Although the organisers had warned against the dangers of wearing fancy dress due to the heat, Ware Joggers found themselves surrounded by the usual collection of rhinos, fairies and superheroes. Once over the start line, with the inevitable adrenaline finally unleashed, Joggers followed the route with over 40,000 other runners through Greenwich to Tower Bridge and on to The Isle of Dogs where they were cheered on by over 50 of their fellow Ware Joggers who were marshalling this part of the route. As temperatures soared above 24 degrees, many runners struggled but all Ware Joggers managed to finish the course with decent times. Michael Waddington achieved a superb time of 2:50:15; Kevin Francis 2:58:26; Nick Kenyon-Muir 3:05:19; Charlotte Dadd 3:42:27; Jo Gladding 4:03:41 and, despite stopping for several hugs, Garth Morris broke the club record in the VM55 category with a time of 3:17:15.  So far this season, over 60 Joggers have completed marathons in Barcelona, Manchester, Paris, Blackpool, Cambridge, Brighton and of course London and would like to express their thanks to Jan Stock who composes bespoke training plans and provides insightful advice on nutrition and technique to help club members prepare for their events. Jan herself, recently completed the 100K Ultra Tour of Arran.

A group of 8 Ware Joggers flew the club colours at the Paris marathon. Having completed most of their training in sub zero temperatures throughout the winter months arriving in Paris to find a spring heatwave was a bit of a shock! The day of the race dawned bright and sunny and as Joggers gathered at the start near the Arc de Triomphe it was clear that the heatwave was not going to disappear. The event has almost 50,000 participants who followed the route through one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Beginning in the city centre and going out through the Bois de Vincennes, passing many famous landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Place de Concorde, The Louvre and Notre Dame before going through the Bois de Boulogne and finishing amid the cheering crowds on Avenue Foch. For Ware Joggers Gemma Charville, (4:44) Neil Merritt (3:57) and Carol Hayward (4:51) this was their first marathon and despite the high temperatures all three finished in under their predicted times. Adam Guest (4:06) and Emily Kenworthy (5:12) both achieved PBs. Ware Joggers Anthea and Kevin Frances, Liz Coates, Paul Martin, Janet Readitt, Barry O'Connor, Clare Halfpenny, Caroline Stephens and Leanne Dring all completed the Manchester Marathon on the same day with, with Liz Coates, Janet Readitt and Anthea Francis all achieving GFA times. The Spring marathon season continues for Ware Joggers with the many participating in the London marathon this weekend, and many others working as marshals at the event.

When a group of (male) Joggers have a post run shower there is inevitably some humming (and hawing) which in turn leads to singing, yes really. And so it was that the Ware Joggers Choir was formed 5 years ago.

Requests (pleas) for singers generated a motley band some of whom (not all, you understand) can actually sing. The rest, as they say, is history. The choir meets weekly at Anne Ramsden's house on Monday evenings and is bravely and very skilfully led by multi instrumentalists Bill Gristwood and his wife Julia. We also have several singers who play instruments.

We sing because we all enjoy it and because there is always cake - usually made by Anne. We have performed in public a few times - mainly for the residents at Willowthorpe Residential Home, but also at club events. For the last couple of years we have sung carols around the area raising money for local charities.

We are always looking for new members……