Ed – Happy New Year y’all! We’ve got a fair bit to cover so lets crack on………..

Committee activity

After a short break for the festive season, we met on Wednesday 9^th January and discussed the usual club finances, membership, forthcoming events, MemberZone orders and social media hits as well as old kit stock, SGP and WSFRL results, nominations for jogger, newcomer and volunteer of the year, new arrangements at The Bridge, Horsham 10k plans and our 35^th anniversary year! More on some of this later. We agreed to meet again on 27^th February. Just a reminder that anyone can attend a committee meeting as a guest, either to observe or to raise a concern. Just CONTACT US to get involved in the next meeting.

The result round up

A quieter period in the run up to Christmas but still some amazing performance by team hj. Read all about it HERE. The result roundup is compiled mainly from press reports by Iain Campbell and we thank him for his continued contribution to the club.

Sussex Masters Cross Country Championship

Entries are open for this, taking place at Coombe Farm, Lancing, BN15 0RS, on Saturday, 19^th January. If anyone is interested in being part of the hj team then please email Pete O’Connor at: purpledrummer@sky.com

Club Treasurer

Following Fiona’s open letter in the last edition of this newsletter, sadly no one has stepped forward to take on the role of treasurer, so we will need to find a new one before the next AGM… could this be you? You don’t need to be a qualified accountant, but you do need to make prompt payments and able to drive a fairly straight forward spreadsheet.  There’s still time for a handover period, with plenty of time to ask questions and get comfortable with the role before you have to go solo. If you’d like to know more, please have a word with Fiona or any of the committee members.

Accounts Auditor

Following on from the appeal above, we also need someone to audit the club accounts in preparation for the next AGM. You don’t need to be qualified, just good at following a trail of invoices/payments/receipts etc for all club transactions recorded on a simple spreadsheet. This can be done over a period of days as and when you can. Please CONTACT US if you can help.

Spring Marathon Training

Starting at 9am (8am from 3^rd Feb onwards!) these training runs are now 3 weeks into the 16 week schedule but James Munden is still looking for a few more volunteers to organise and support the runners. Please check the schedule HERE and offer your support by CONTACTING US. We have hundreds of routes saved and can support you with water containers, cups etc.

Nominations for Jogger/Newcomer/Volunteer of the year

As a new year starts, it is time to look back over the past year and think about who is your Jogger (JOY) / Newcomer (NOY) / Volunteer (VOY) of 2018.

JOY can be for any reason which makes a current member stand out in your eyes.

NOY will be those newcomers who joined between 1st Jan and 31st Dec 2018.

VOY may be those individuals who aren’t necessary regular runners (if at all) but are always supporting the club and getting involved.

Please CONTACT US with a brief description why you believe they should be considered. Nominations will close at midnight on Sunday 3rd February. Voting will then open on Sunday 17th February and close on Sunday 10th March. Awards will be made at the AGM in April.

Quiz Night Winners!

Horsham Joggers had a great night at the Quiz evening back in November when 13 teams of hj’s and friends/family tested their knowledge against one another. Congratulations to our winners “And In Forth Place” followed by “Low Expectations” in 2nd place and “Old Gits And Others” in 3rd place. The most coveted award of the HJ wooden spoon went to “5 cakes to 10 cakes Improvers”. The most coveted award of the HJ wooden spoon went to “5 cakes to 10 cakes Improvers”.

Award winners!

At our recent awards night, over 50 members went home with some bling for their efforts in 2018. To read all about it, click HERE

The Bridge

We are now meeting in the undercroft at the new leisure centre just before 7pm on a Tuesday and 9am on Sunday. We can use the toilets and refreshments in the leisure centre at any time as before. Showers are available for a small charge, payable at reception.

2019 Challenge Trophy Races

Just a quick reminder of the CT races for 2019. Qualifying criteria remains the same; you must be a paid up member at the time of each race and you must be wearing club kit. As these are races and not a time trials, times are recorded and prizes awarded on your GUN TIME, so sharpen your elbows and get up the front at the start!

10k Challenge – Chichester Priory 10k (3^rd Feb)

10mile Challenge – Haywards Heath 10 miles (5^th May)

WSFRL Challenge – Hove Hornets Stinger (14^th July)

Half marathon Challenge – Run Reigate (15^th Sept)

Track Etiquette

It can be a daunting prospect taking to the track for the first time. Some of us haven’t stepped a foot on a running track since school days! Rest assured that you are all very welcome and the benefits of a weekly £2 interval or circuit training session on a track are well recognised. However, as a first timer you will need to be aware of some simple rules or, if you are a regular track user, you may need a gentle reminder! These are displayed on trackside and are available on our website HERE.

SGP & WSFRL races for 2019

While the WSFRL race calendar has already been published HERE, the SGP dates are not yet on their website. However, we have an advance page for our members handbook which can be found HERE. Horsham Joggers came 12^th in last years SGP team list with Paul Chantler and Geri Smith scoring the most points for our men and women respectively.

Mental Health Champions

We have had one member interested in becoming a Mental Health Champion in conjunction with UKA’s Run & Talk initiative. If you want to join in, please click HERE for details.

January SALE!

We have various bits of new “old” kit stock which we would like to offer members for just £10 per item! Please take a look at the list HERE and see Stephen Entecott or CONTACT US directly to purchase items. These are not for sale via the MemberZone and we can only take cash payments to simplify the process.

Dates for your diary

19^th Jan – Sussex Masters X-Country Champs

26^th Jan – Maverick Series 8, 15 or 23km, Amberley Museum

27^th Jan – Dark Star River Marathon, Shoreham

3^rd Feb – Chichester 10k (Club Challenge Trophy race)

10^th Feb – Worthing Half

24^th Feb – Brighton Half

2^nd Mar – Winter Nuts Challenge, Dorking

3^rd Mar – Eastbourne Half

3^rd Mar – Steyning Stinger Half and Marathon

3^rd Mar – Leith Hill Half, Dorking

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

Committee activity

We met again on Wednesday 7^th November and discussed the club finances, membership, forthcoming events, MemberZone orders and social media as well as The Gunpowder Trot, The Bridge arrangements, challenge trophy races, Twinning, SGP and West Sussex Fun Run League updates. We agreed to meet again on 9^th January. Just a reminder that anyone can attend a committee meeting as a guest, either to observe or to raise a concern. Just CONTACT US to get involved in the next meeting.

The result round up

It never ceases to amaze us how many races team hj attend during the 6 weeks between news updates. To read all about the amazing performances just CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup, compiled mainly from press reports by Iain.

Gunpowder Trot Review

Following on from the superb foundations laid by Victoria Saunders over the few past years, Margaret Wadman and her core team burnt the midnight oil recently and the fruits of their labours were clear to see to all the competitors and volunteers who played their parts in this fabulous event. The Gunpowder Trot has become one of the key events on the WSFRL calendar and is widely praised by all who take part. Our congratulations go to Bradley Burke (Horsham Blue Star) and to Tara Shanahan (Arena 80) who crossed the line as first man and lady but also to the 439 runners who followed them and to the hi-viz heroes, without whom this day just doesn’t happen! Well done to you all. If you’ve got any feedback, please CONTACT US

Annual hj Quiz Night

Martyn Newton has written the questions and he’ll be ably assisted by James Munden, so we are almost ready for you on Friday 16^th November at Horsham Cricket and Sports Club at 7pm. 11 teams have already entered and we have space for about 14 in total. So be quick! Enter your team now to avoid disappointment! CONTACT US to register your team of max 6 players (min 2x hj members per team) and pay your £18 on the day (that’s just £3 per person by my GCSE in maths!!). You can BYO snacks and nibbles and the bar will be open for all liquid refreshments.

“The Bridge”

If you’ve been to a club training night recently or read the local press, you’ll have noticed that we are now meeting in the undercroft at the fabulous new leisure centre kindly “donated” to us by HDC using our council taxes. As with all new facilities, they are clearly protective and have implemented new security turnstiles to prevent unauthorised access. While we are free to use the toilets on the public side of the barriers at anytime, access for club members to the changing rooms, lockers and showers is currently restricted to a Thursday evening only. Rest assured that we are working hard on your behalf and are in communication with The Bridge operators and if necessary the owners (HDC) to ensure that we are welcomed and accommodated as we were with the previous leisure centre. Watch this space and our social media platforms for further updates.

2019 Challenge Trophy Races

The races chosen for 2018 have certainly rekindled interest for this inter-club championship with some surprising results and a varied bunch of winners this year! On Tuesday 11^th December we will be awarding the trophies straight after the annual winter handicap at Horsham Cricket and Sports Club. In order to retain that new found excitement, the committee has again changed things a bit for 2019. Qualifying criteria remains the same; you must be a paid up member at the time of each race and you must be wearing club kit. As these are races and not a time trials, times are recorded and prizes awarded on your GUN TIME, so sharpen your elbows and get up the front at the start!

10k Challenge – Chichester Priory 10k (3^rd Feb)

10mile Challenge – Haywards Heath 10 miles (5^th May)

WSFRL Challenge – Hove Hornets Stinger (Aug – TBC)

Half marathon Challenge – Run Reigate (15^th Sept)

A letter from the club treasurer

Dear All, I have been club treasurer for five years, and would like to hand on the role after the 2019 AGM.  So we will need a new treasurer… could this be you?  The most important part of the role is making sure that bills get paid on time, and keeping a record of payments into and out of the club’s accounts.  At year end, this all gets brought together into the financial statements which are presented to the members, to show them how the committee is a) using and b) looking after their money. You don’t need to be a qualified accountant (I’m not!) but you do need to be comfortable with numbers and able to drive a fairly straightforward spreadsheet.  There will be a reasonable handover period, with plenty of time to ask questions and get comfortable with the role before you have to go solo.  And you get to be part of the great group of people that make up the HJ Committee, who are appreciative, supportive and fun to work with! If you’d like to know more, please have a word with me or any of the committee members. Many thanks, Fiona.

Twinning UpdateA few members of TG Lage came to Horsham during the weekend of 29^th and 30^th September. Organised by Dave Maurice for many years, this twinning arrangement is still going strong and we hope soon to announce some news regarding a reciprocal visit next spring! The club members took part in a parkrun at Horsham on Saturday followed by the Barns Green Half marathon or 10k on the Saturday.

Horsham 10k

We will soon be kicking off the pre-event planning for the Horsham 10k which will be held on 2nd June 2019.  Due to the revised date, we will now be looking to recruit a race referee and junior run director.  Both roles are a key part of the event team and support will be provided to individuals during the run up to the event. We will lead you through the planning and run up so you will have experience on hand except on the day. Neither role is as daunting as it sounds – and both are rewarding in their own way.  Please CONTACT US for more info.

Norwegian Fjords

(Ed – Club member Crispin tells us about his Norwegian experience)

Encouraged by my son getting a 6 month placement at university in Norway I said I would go and visit him in Bergen, “when there is a good race on”!  A Google search for Bergen Marathon led me to the Knarvikmila, Great Fjord Run race weekend at the beginning of September. This was 3 races over 3 days totalling a marathon distance. I was reminded that they do the same in Haywards Heath in the spring …..but that to me is where the similarities between mid Sussex towns and beautiful Norwegian cities end ! All 3 races started from a sports stadium in the town of Knarvik, a 20 minute bus drive from the centre of Bergen. We began on Friday evening with an 11 K cross country race, starting on the running track, then 2 laps in the hills. It was very steep and seemed designed to knock the stuffing out of you for the next 2 days , but I finished in 1hr 17 min (96th out of 180 runners). On Saturday afternoon there was a 10K on road around the town and along the edge of the fjord. Like everything else over the weekend it was well organised and great fun. Despite legs getting tired and quite a hilly course I got round in 46 min (146th of 550 entries). Sunday morning  and time for the big one.  A scenic half marathon on roads crossing 3 suspension bridges over the fjords . A really good course, fantastic weather and views, made even better as I passed 2 runners late on who had beaten me the previous day! I was happy with 1hr 41min (76th of 293). Overall there were 64 people who ran all 3 races (we are officially Fjordvikings!) and I finished 32nd out of 50 men, and got my Viking warrior memento. Getting the courtesy bus from Bergen centre each day was a great way to make friends and I met about a dozen English runners, some from Ireland, a group from Sweden and others from Iceland, Hong Kong and Ethiopia & Eritrea. Most stayed in the main hotels in town, but everything in Norway is expensive and I found a cheap Air B&B. Next year my son will no longer be a student in Bergen and I won’t have a good excuse to go back, but the idea is tempting and I would recommend it to every Horsham Jogger. Entries are open for 2019 if you follow this link: https://www.knarvikmila.no/

Do you have what it takes to be a Champion?

England Athletics are looking to develop a network of Mental Health Champions throughout clubs in the area and a couple of the committee attended a workshop recently to see what it’s all about. We all run for different reasons and with a club of over 480 members, there will be scores of you who welcome the “head space” and sociability that running provides. If you’re compassionate and a good listener you could become hj’s Mental Health Champion! Basically a point of contact for those who might be struggling a bit more than most. The role is supported by EA and would be a great asset to the club. Have a look HERE for further details

Dates for your diary

16^th Nov – hj quiz night

18^th Nov – Brighton 10k

25^th Nov – Dunsfold Jigsaw 10k

25^th Nov – Crowborough 10k (SGP)

1^st Dec – Christmas Cracker 10k

9^th Dec – Mince Pie 10

11^th Dec – Winter handicap and award night

30^th Dec – Spring marathon training begins!

1^st Jan – Hangover 5 (WSFRL)

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 26^th September and discussed the usual club finances, membership and forthcoming events as well as Track training, club kit, Gunpowder Trot, challenge trophy results, SGP and West Sussex Fun Run League updates. We agreed to meet again on 7^th November. Not sure who your committee are? Well we’ve updated the committee page and personal profiles so why not have a look HERE

The result round up

Some amazing performances over the last six weeks. To read all about it CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup compiled mainly from press reports by Iain Campbell.

Barns Green team photoIf you are reading this with an early morning cuppa and wondering what time to get to Barns Green today, we will be having a team photo (half and 10k) at the hj gazebo at 9.30am. Just look for the hj flags and all those marvellous maroon hoodies! A staggering 122 hj’s ran in both the half and 10k races last year so it would be great to see the same amount this time.

Goodwood Cross Country Relays

Pete O’Connell is looking to put teams together for this event on Saturday 13^th October. For more info CLICK HERE

Or CONTACT US to be put in touch with Pete.

Gunpowder Trot – 4^th November

Margaret Wadman is on course to deliver another fantastic fun run around the beautiful Denne Park and Chesworth Farm with all the key roles now filled. However, she still needs about 20 marshals for the course and more cake bakers! If you can help please use this Survey Monkey link to let her know: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/GunpowderTrotForm

Headtorch Runs

These have now started again under the watchful eye of Mike de Frateschi and will continue until April 2019. Venue details are sent out weekly by Mike for those on the mailing list. Alternatively you can find them HERE and also subscribe to the list.

Keep Running 5 to 10k

Sue and Simon have done a superb job of delivering this course for all abilities with the help of a few regular helpers. The new runners recently graduated at the Chestnut Tree House 10k in Littlehampton on 9^th September (see result round-up) and most have gone on to become regular hj members running other races and also coming to regular hj sessions on Tuesday and Thursday evening. Congratulation everyone!

Annual hj Quiz Night

Martyn Newton has kindly stepped up to be quiz master this year. Provisionally Friday 16^th November at Horsham Cricket Club. Please save the date and watch this space for further details of how to register a team.

Challenge Trophy

The races have been run and the results collated by the wonderful Steve Wilson. All that remains is to present the awards on 11^th December, so watch this space, social media and your inbox (if you’ve won!) for more news.

Club coloursWe’ve streamlined the club kit purchasing process and it’s now in the very capable hands of Stephen Entecott. Just log into the MemberZone and place your order using PayPal or your credit/debit card. And remember, if you are entering ANY race as a Horsham Jogger, wear your club colours with pride!

Dates for your diary

30^th Sept – Windlesham House 4 (WSFRL)

30^th Sept – Barns Green Half Marathon and 10k

7^th Oct – Lewes Downland 10m (SGP)

7^th Oct – Heron Way 10k

7^th Oct – Bright 10

7^th Oct – Downslink Ultra

13^th Oct – Goodwood X-Country Relays

14^th Oct – Great Walstead 5 (WSFRL)

21^st Oct – Hove Prom 10k (SGP)

21^st Oct – Amsterdam Marathon

27^th Oct – Beechy Head Marathon/10k

28^th Oct – Steepdown Challenge (WSFRL)

4^th Nov – Gunpowder Trot (WSFRL)

16^th Nov – hj quiz night (provisional)

18^th Nov – Brighton 10k

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 15^th August and discussed the usual club finances, membership  and forthcoming events as well as the “Keep on Running” 5 to 10k course, Club kit, Horsham Round and Gunpowder Trot. We agreed to meet again on 26^th September.

The result round up

Despite the heat, so many of you have been out and about flying the hj flag over the past eight weeks. To read all about it CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup compiled mainly from press reports by Iain.

Horsham Round

Entries are now flooding in for this bank holiday Monday social run and we have guest teams joining us from Horley Harriers, Crawley Run Crew, Mel’s Milers and Crawley Saints and Sinners. Teams divide up the 29 miles (consisting of 7 legs) between them and set off early from Horsham Park Bandstand with the goal of returning with everyone else at 2.30pm. To avoid any delays, we will have three BBQ’s available this year so bring your own food and drink and we will provide the heat! This social after party is open to all members, friends and family (not just those running the round) and is now considered to be our primary social event of the year. So don’t miss out!

Horsham Round organiser

We’re delighted to announce that James Munden will take over from Phil next year. It’s great to see this annual event go from strength to strength and to know that it will be in very capable hands. Thanks James!

Gunpowder Trot – 4^th November

Margaret Wadman is keen to deliver another fantastic fun run around the beautiful Denne Park and Chesworth Farm. However, she still needs to fill some key roles in order to distribute the work load evenly among club members. We are still looking for organised and self motivated individuals to complete these tasks and the future of this event depends on it! We really can’t do this without people stepping up to fill these key roles!

• Race Secretary (collating entries and issuing numbers on the day).
• Finish Manager (setting up and managing the funnel, timekeepers, number checkers and results).
• Chief Marshal (Briefing volunteers, making sure the course is ready for the start, coordinating emergencies or problems around the course during the run).
• Junior run organiser

If you think you have what it takes, please CONTACT US to be part of the team.

Keep on Running 5 to 10k

The response to this course has been phenomenal with many participants commenting that it has stopped them from stagnating following their initial running achievements to 5k. Sue and Simon have done a superb job of delivering this course for all abilities with the help of a few regular helpers. New runners are currently in week 8 of 11 and are all on target to graduate at the Chestnut Tree House 10k in Littlehampton on 9^th September and can then continue with hj if they want to.

Itchingfield Time Trial

The 4th and final ITT of 2018 takes place on Tuesday 4th September at the slightly earlier time of 7pm. Numbers were low in July and John wasn’t feeling the love! Please support this great event and remember to share lifts or park away from the start as we rely on the goodwill of the locals to ensure this event can continue.

Group Leader try outs

We’re always keen to see new people leading group runs on a Tuesday evening as it helps to spread the load among our regulars. However, we’re also aware that some who would like to lead feel daunted by the task and don’t know where to start. So if you would like to lead, just come along on a Tuesday evening with a route in mind (or on paper!) and ask your regular leader if you can take the front and navigate/pace the group while they follow. If you don’t have a route, we have hundreds stored on the hj Good Run Guide website (login details by request) and we even have some printed and laminated within the hj file at BBHLC reception desk. It’s a great opportunity to give back to the club while having the comfort of an experienced leader keeping an eye on your progress.

West Sussex Fun Run League

Ed – Joe has been in touch with an offer for you. Please CONTACT US to express an interest. If there is a good amount of interest we will put all names in a hat.

I am writing to introduce our new event the Running Festival at Goodwood set to take place on October 14th. We at UK Run Events (www.ukrunevents.co.uk) will be hosting a family lap, 10K and Half Marathon at this prestigious venue. We would like to offer a free place for one of your club members to take part in a race of their choosing. If you could just reply with which race your chosen runner would like to take place in and we will send you a code for them to register at no cost. We are very pleased to announce that our partners for this event are national retailer Up & Running as well as Ron Hill, Hilly and Altra. The event will be the first ever “live” race to be a part of the Ron Hill run every day challenge for a month which takes place each October. All competitors receive a Ron Hill technical t-shirt, bespoke medal, free pre and post-race massage, free photography and goody bag!

Track training – 30^th Aug

BBH football club will play a match on this date so we have been asked to ensure that all runners vacate the track by 7.30pm. In return and to ensure our safety, we have asked BBHLC that they don’t use the infield for warm up and target practice until our booked and scheduled session is over.

Dates for your diary

19^th Aug – 13 The Hard Way

26^th Aug – Arundel 10k

26^th Aug – Newick Will Page 10k

27^th Aug – Horsham Round/Family BBQ in the park

2^nd Sept – Fittleworth 5 (WSFRL and hj Challenge Trophy race)

4^th Sept – Itchingfield time trial 4 of 4

9^th Sept – John Faulds Hellingly 10k (SGP)

9^th Sept – Chestnut Tree House 10k (hj 5to10k graduation)

9^th Sept – Eridge Park 10 Trail Challenge

9^th Sept – Bacchus Marathon/Half Marathon

16^th Sept – Richmond Marathon

23^rd Sept – Tilgate Forest 5 (WSFRL)

30^th Sept – Windlesham House 4 (WSFRL)

30^th Sept – Barns Green Half Marathon

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

ED – A bumper crop of info this time so let’s crack on…………………

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 20^th June and discussed the usual club finances, membership  and forthcoming events as well as the Horsham 10k round up, “Keep on Running”, Twitter updates, Club kit, BG1/2 training, SGP award qualification, Horsham Round and Gun Powder Trot. We agreed to meet again after a summer recess on 15^th August.

The result round up

Wow! What a busy lot you’ve been! So many races to report on this time with incredible performances by all of you. To read all about it, CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup compiled mainly from press reports by Iain.

Keep Running!

Our new course leaders are ready and raring to go next week with the start of our brand new 12 week course to take those new to running 5k up to the next level with the goal of the Chestnut Tree House 10k on 9^th September. Training takes place on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7pm and at parkrun on a Saturday. And all for just £25! So tell your friends to look HERE to book their place. We are also looking for volunteers to help the course leaders to deliver this safely and to encourage the improvers. If you can help occasionally or want to be a permanent part of the team, why not send an email as well.

The Andy Spriggs Running Spirit Award

We were delighted to see Sandra and Jo at the recent Horsham 10k to present the inaugural Running Spirit Award in Andy’s memory. The award will be presented annually to someone who demonstrates exceptional generosity, courage, stoicism, passion, perseverance or sportsmanship. All qualities which Andy bought to the club. Unfortunately our recipient had other ideas and sloped off home before we could catch up with him. Fortunately though Mick Duplock wasn’t quite so quick at club training on Tuesday recently and we caught up with him there. Congratulations Mick! We can’t think of a more fitting recipient for this year’s award.

Horsham 10k Junior fun run

Junior RD Sharon has kindly produced this little report on what the juniors got up to before the main event. Thanks Sharon! Horsham 10k Junior report

Barns Green Training Plan

With 15 weeks until the day, Coach Fiona has been busy preparing a new training schedule for our favourite half marathon on 30^th Sept. The plan starts on 1^st July and uses your usual Tuesday/Thursday club sessions along with structured Sunday running. CLICK HERE for details.

Riverside Walk 2018

The next Annual Riverside Walk takes place on Saturday 14th July 2018. As before the start is at 10.00 at Horsham Rugby Club, Hammerpond Road, RH13 6PJ, where there is ample parking for cars. It will be going again in a clockwise direction, calling first at Chesworth Farm, then onto Warnham Nature Reserve and Strawberry Fields Tearoom at New House Farm. A mini-bus will be available to give lifts back to the start from various points. Registration for the Event can be done by phoning 07780 701184 or emailing horshamriversidewalk@gmail.com. Registration is not compulsory but will help them with numbers to expect.

Horsham Round organiser

As noted in the previous newsletter, this will be Phil’s last year as organiser for the annual Horsham Round so its future depends on new help! We have 5 guest clubs joining us by invitation this year and we need a new organiser to shadow Phil and learn the ropes. If you’ve ever run in the event, you’ll know that it’s a well established, self-navigated, self-timed, self-managed event so there’s really not much to organise! If you have stood on the sidelines wondering how to get more involved with hj then this could be your chance! CONTACT US for more details.

Gunpowder Trot – 4^th November

Ok, so you’re probably too busy scoffing strawberries and cream to even think that the days are now getting shorter and it will soon be Christmas! But here at hj HQ the wheels never stop turning and our new event organiser, Margaret Wadman, is on track to deliver another fantastic fun run around the beautiful Denne Park and Chesworth Farm. However, we need to fill some key roles in order to distribute the work load evenly among club members. We are looking for organised and self motivated individuals to complete these tasks:

• Race Secretary (collating entries and issuing numbers on the day).
• Finish Manager (setting up and managing the funnel, timekeepers, number checkers and results).
• Chief Marshal (Briefing volunteers, making sure the course is ready for the start, coordinating emergencies or problems around the course during the run).
• Course break down and clearance to the lock up (following set up by Phil).

If you have what it takes please CONTACT US to be part of it.

Marathon madness!

ED – Busy mum of three, Kate Short tells us what motivated her to be even busier by training for 3 marathons in 50 days!

Last year 3 separate friends suggested 3 separate marathons & for some crazy reason I said yes to all of them! So it’s fair to say it’s been a busy start to 2018 and here is my little review of 3 marathons in 50 days.
Paris Marathon 8/4/18
An extremely stressful start to what should have been a wonderful weekend away, we flew out on the Saturday and our flight was delayed which meant we were going to miss the expo where we had to collect our race packs! Thanks to the amazing power of Facebook I made a cry for help on the #parismarathongirls group and an extremely kind lady collected our packs for us and we met her later at her hotel. The marathon itself was lovely, it was just a whirlwind weekend. Marathon time: 4hours 20 minutes.
Milton Keynes 7/5/18
The hottest bank holiday! It was a scorcher! But the people of Milton Keynes were brilliant with loads of kids lining the route with their super soakers. It was a beautiful route, lots of parks to run through & a fantastic finish line inside the football stadium. We paid for the park & walk (which feels like a really long way to walk!) but there is parking at the stadium which would be a much better option. Marathon time: 4 hours 43 minutes.
And finally Edinburgh Marathon 27/5/18
This has to be my favourite of the 3, maybe because I was relieved to have completed all 3 and also because I got a PB! Your race number gets posted to you which makes it all much easier. We flew up early Saturday morning & after dropping our bags at the hotel caught the bus into the city centre to work out how to get to the start line. It’s such a beautiful city, although we didn’t explore too much as we wanted to save our legs for the next day. Edinburgh definitely had the best finish line out of the 3, the crowds were awesome and the finish funnel with the music, I felt like a true athlete! The challenge was getting back to the airport on time because from the finish line you have to take a shuttle bus back to the city centre which takes about an hour. So make sure you book a late flight or_r stay an extra night. Marathon time: 4 hours 9 minutes.
Kate

SGP 10’s

With a reduction in the number of SGP races this year, the committee has re-looked at the criteria and agreed to reduce the amount of races needed to win an award to 6. With 7 races remaining in this year’s calendar, there is every chance to win a club award and valuable points for the club. WSFRL races remain at 10 to qualify for an award.

Club colours

We’ve streamlined the club kit purchasing process and it’s now in the very capable hands of Stephen Entecott. Just log into the MemberZone and place your order using PayPal or your credit/debit card. And remember, if you are entering ANY race as a Horsham Jogger, wear your club colours with pride!

Dates for your diary

24^th June – Heathfield 10k (SGP)

24^th June – Polesden Lacey 10k

27^th June – Harder than Snails 10/15k Shalford

30^th June – Richmond Park 5/10k

1^st July – Bewl 15 (SGP)

4^th July – Roundhill Romp (WSFRL)

8^th July – North Downs Way Marathon

8^th July – Cranleigh 10k

8^th July – Eastbourne 10k

11^th July – Brighton Phoenix 10k (SGP)

14^th July – Riverside Walk

29^th July – Seven Stiles (WSFRL)

1^st Aug – Highdown Hike (WSFRL)

19^th Aug – Hornets Stinger (WSFRL)

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 9^th May and discussed the usual club finances, membership renewal and forthcoming events as well as the CASC application, AGM round up, club kit, data protection, Horsham 10k, gun timing vs chip timing, SGP10’s and Gunpowder Trot organisers.  More on some of this later. We agreed to meet again on 20^th June

URGENT! – Membership renewals

A reminder that your membership runs from 1^st April to 31^st March annually and is still only £10!

360 members have already renewed leaving about 190 still to pay or submit the correct paperwork. With the implementation of GDPR on 25^th May, we can no longer legally hold your personal data without your consent. If you have renewed via the MemberZone or sent a signed paper renewal form with your payment you don’t need to do anything else.

However, if you haven’t renewed or have sent cash, cheque or bank transfer direct to hj WITHOUT A RENEWAL FORM, your data will be deleted on 25^th May and your membership will expire. You will then need to re-join the club and a £5 joining fee will apply. This is a legal requirement for 2018 but the committee has now decided to follow similar timelines for renewal in the future as it seems unfair that most pay on time whereas others wait for multiple reminders sometimes up until August each year!

Please remember that the best way to renew is online via the MemberZone using your PayPal account, credit or debit card. No paperwork, no paper money, no hassle!

The result round up

It’s been another busy six weeks for team hj! To read all about it CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup compiled from press reports by Iain.

Horsham 10k update

Entry to the adult 10k is now FULL but we have plenty of space for more U16 juniors and we NEED MORE CAKE BAKERS! We are almost there with the volunteer lists and specific instructions will now be emailed out by the relevant team leaders. If you’ve volunteered but not received instructions by Wed 16^th May, please contact: horsham10khelpers@gmail.com

Prior preparation and planning prevents poor performance!

In the spirit of the title, team manager John Wilcox took Trevor Barrett and Paul Davis up the downs (?) last week to recce leg 17 of the route for the forthcoming South Downs Way 100mile relay. Well done chaps!

Gun time or Chip time?

This age old argument has been rolling on since the advent of individual timing and fills so many blogs and forums that we won’t bore you with the details here. But some members have asked why we use gun times to judge the awards given for our Challenge Trophy races (CT). Well, firstly these races are picked annually by the committee and we cannot be certain that all will include chip timing (WSFRL doesn’t for instance). Secondly the traditional idea of a “race” is summed up by being first past the post (or finish line) therefore if you’ve started at the back of the pack you are reducing your chances of beating those in your age category or even taking the overall male or female shield. Thirdly, if we could use individual timing (chip or otherwise) it effectively becomes a time trial and not a race. So the moral of the story is; Get up the front at CT events! You never know, you might win a prize by just a few seconds!

SGP 10’s

With a reduction in the number of SGP races this year, the committee has agreed to reduce the amount of races needed to win an award back to 8. WSFRL races remain at 10 to qualify for an award.

Horsham Round

Are you a keen Horsham Round participant? Do you want to help by inviting, organising and communicating with the teams? This year will be Phil’s last as organiser and we are keen to find someone to shadow him this year with a view to taking over next year. The event is well established and pretty much self managing but it just needs someone to coordinate it and make it happen. Just CONTACT US for more details.

Gunpowder Trot organiser

Great news! Margaret Wadman has put herself forward to carry on the excellent work by Victoria. Thanks Margaret! This year’s fun run will take place on Sunday 4^th November and over the coming months, Margaret will be getting up to speed and then looking for key people to develop a small organising team. A general call for helpers will follow nearer to the event.

Twinning update

Ed-A message from our Twinning rep, Dave Maurice – This photo was taken on our last visit to Lage for the Adventlauf. Ben Ageros ran the 10 km. Ray Ageros walked the 10 km and I walked the 5 km . As always we had a great time.

Dates for your diary

16^th May – Littlehampton Beach Run (WSFRL)

20^th May – Horsham 10k (SGP)

23^rd May – Trundle Hill Run (WSFRL)

27^th May – Rye 10 miles

2^nd June – South Downs Way Relay 100m

3^rd June – Worthing 10k

10^th June – Hove 5k (WSFRL) with BYO picnic

12^th June – 2^nd Itchingfield Time Trial

19^th June – hj Summer handicap (in Horsham Park)

23^rd June – Downland Dash (WSFRL)

23^rd June – Race to the King

24th June – Heathfield 10k (SGP)

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know.

Committee activity

A small committee met on Wednesday 4^th April and discussed the usual club finances,  club kit, membership renewal, as well as the forthcoming AGM, JOY/VOY/NOY award winners, marathon minibuses, Horsham 10k and Gunpowder Trot.  More on some of this later. We agreed to meet again on 9^th May.

Membership renewals

Just a quick reminder that your membership has now elapsed (unless you joined between 1^st Jan and 31^st March this year). You can now renew online via the MemberZone using PayPal (account or guest checkout). No paperwork, no paper money, no hassle! Also a reminder that UKA have increased affiliation to £15 for 2018/19.

Marathon Minibuses

Further to the appeal in the last newsletter, unfortunately no one has stepped forward to drive the minibus to the Brighton Marathon so this option will now be cancelled. However, we do have a minibus and driver available for the London Marathon so if you want to be included on the passenger list, please CONTACT US. A small donation is requested for fuel and to support The Springboard Project. You will arrive a short distance from Blackheath and can be collected again in Horseguards Parade for the return trip if required.

The result round up

It’s been another busy month for team hj! To read all about it CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup compiled from press reports by Iain over the last six weeks.

AGM – Tuesday 24th April

This year we will be at the new venue of Horsham Cricket and Sports Club, Cricketfield Road. We will meet there for 7pm and use the local routes through Denne Park or Chesworth for a “normal” Tuesday evening run followed by the AGM at 8.30pm. Parking is available at the venue and showers, nibbles and a bar will all available after the run. We hope to see as many of you as possible for Phil’s round-up of the last year’s achievements, election of committee members and presentation of the coveted JOY, VOY and NOY awards that you have all been busy voting for!

Summer Pub Runs – 26th April

As the evenings grow longer, we say farewell to the headtorches and hello to the summer pub runs! For more info and the full schedule just CLICK HERE

Horsham 10k update

Entry is open and is filling up fast with around 300 entries so far! We now need around 80 volunteers to make sure this event is delivered safely and successfully. We will soon be asking for individual volunteers via Facebook and at the AGM. Please remember that we are hosting our home event for others to participate in and this relies on many volunteers to make it happen. If you are an hj member, we expect you to consider volunteering before applying to enter the race!

The Andy Spriggs Running Spirit Award

Following Andy’s untimely passing at Christmas, we’ve been working hard to find a way to honour his memory and mark his contributions to the club and in particular, the Horsham 10k which he worked tirelessly to develop. With Sandra’s blessing, we have decided on a new award which encapsulates all the qualities that Andy brought to the club and which were summed up so passionately in your personal tributes within our recent article about his life. The inaugural Running Spirit Award will be presented at this year’s Horsham 10k to someone who demonstrates exceptional generosity, courage, stoicism, passion, perseverance or sportsmanship.

Seychelles marathon

Ed – Ian and Leigh sent us this lovely report on their recent international adventure……….

After walking off the plane into 30C heat and 80% humidity, we realised this marathon may be a bigger challenge than we thought. After a couple of days acclimatising, (drinking beer), race day was upon us and we woke at 5 to a cloudy but warm day. At 7 o’clock the gun went off and 10 seconds later the race clock started! Nobody rushes in the Seychelles. A 5k loop started the marathoners and half-marathoners at which point we joined the majority of the runners doing the 5k and 10k races. The 5k race was out and back on the same route with no attempt to separate the returning runners from the rest of the field, resulting in several small children being sent flying by the lead runners. After the 10k turnaround point the field was significantly reduced at which time the heavens opened and we were completely drenched. Some significant undulations on the coast road to the capital Victoria took us to the turnaround point at approximately 16 miles. Aid stations were frequent, friendly but light on everything except water; thank goodness we carried our own nutrition. We kept a steady pace and caught a few runners in the last few miles, crossing the finish line together in 5:15 to collect our t-shirt, medal, certificate and really heavy fresh coconut. Although it was the 11th year of this event, it was still quite chaotic in typical Seychellois style however we still enjoyed the race.

Leigh & Ian

South Downs Way Relay – Saturday 2nd June

This year we have again been invited to enter two teams for this superb event. We are almost there with an ‘A’ team (Seniors) and Vets (40+) but need a couple more runners to complete the teams. You will be part of a 6 person team and will run three non consecutive legs of the 100 miles South Downs Way (18 legs in total).  During the day you will run a total of 15 -18 miles.  You will be looked after and transported (when not running) in a minibus with a driver and navigator.  You need to be comfortable running an 8:30 minute per mile pace in hilly terrain. Check out the event via this link http://www.southdownsrelay.co.uk/ .This is always a great day comprising challenge, competition, camaraderie and fun. If you are interested don’t delay please CONTACT US

Dorking 10’s

Dorking & Mole Valley Athletics Club has announced the running of the inaugural Cockerel 10K race on 3rd June 2018 in Dorking. Running alongside the Dorking 10 mile round of the Surrey Championship, which many of our members may well be considering, they are delighted to announce the launch of the Cockerel 10K, a new and exciting 10K road race that uses the same classic, leafy Surrey lanes as the Dorking 10 Mile race. Online entry can be found here: https://register.primoevents.com/ps/event/DorkingTenMileand10K2018

Website updates

The MemberZone has now been in place for just over a year. In that time we’ve processed over 400 orders with a total value of over £8000! If you haven’t used it yet, why not give it a try. We often get asked the same questions; How do I reset my password? How do I view what I’ve ordered? How do I change my personal details? I can’t login! etc, etc. Well ask no more! We’ve now added a “my account” option to the menu. Simply login and choose this option to manage your account. If you can’t remember your password – click -> Login, click -> Lost password, enter your Registered Email Address, click -> Get new password. PLEASE NOTE: the automated email will come from WordPress, not hj! So look out for it in your junk box as well. Also, did you know that you don’t need a PayPal account to pay via the MemberZone. Just choose to checkout as a guest and enter your card details via the secure third party server. They don’t hold onto this information so it’s safe and secure.

Gunpowder Trot organiser

Yes, it may be over five months away but we still need a new organiser for this race to continue the great work by Victoria. Procedures are in place to repeat the event this year so we need a self motivated, organised individual(s) to fulfil these tasks:

• Liaison with venue, land owners, local authority, medical providers.
• Organising a small team of leaders to deliver the various part of the race.
• Recruiting/coordinating volunteers for each sub-team.
• Monitoring entries and submitting to the league
• Checking/purchasing the inventory for the race.
• Supervising the set up and delivery on the day.
• Keeping accurate accounts for submission to the treasurer.
• (Not an exhaustive list)

Keep Running 2018!

Plans are in place for a new improvers course for those who have completed the couch to 5k type courses or those new to Parkrun who want to take it to the next level. We have two new leaders who are dead keen to get this under way between June and September so watch this space for more info.

Dates for your diary

15^th Apr – Brighton Marathon

22^nd April – London Marathon

5^th May – East Grinstead 10m (Mid-Sussex Weekend Marathon [MSWM])

6^th May – Haywards Heath 10m (Club challenge trophy and MSWM)

6^th May – 3 Forts Challenge

7^th May – Burgess Hill 10k (MSWM)

13^th May – Portslade Hedge Hoppers 5m (WSFRL)

13^th May – Hastings 5m (SGP)

13^th May – Run Wisborough 5/10k

16^th May – Littlehampton Beach Run (WSFRL)

20^th May – Horsham 10k (SGP)

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know!

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 21^st Feb with a couple more new guests and discussed the usual club finances, membership and forthcoming events as well as club kit, membership renewal, data protection, JOY/VOY/NOY voting procedures, Horsham 10k and Gunpowder Trot organisers. More on some of this later. We agreed to meet again on 4^th April

The results round up

So what have you all been up to? We’ve compiled this item from press reports by Iain over the last six weeks. Just CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup.

Get voting!

Firstly an apology! After promising not to bombard you with emails if you subscribe to news updates, it seems that our mailshot server didn’t get the memo and sent multiple messages recently with the same content! Hopefully you saw the funny side and didn’t just click “unsubscribe” in disgust? Anyway, we had a lot more nominations as a result of the “rigorous” mailshot. Now that we have the short list, we have opened the window for current members to vote for your favourite via the MemberZone Survey Monkey links. Simply log-in, click on the “Award Nominations” category and follow the links to the 3 awards. The deadline for votes is 31^st March so that the awards can be presented as usual at the AGM in April.

Brighton Marathon place

Due to illness or injury, we now have one club place available for this race. If you want to represent your club in this great event on 15^th April, just CONTACT US

Brighton Marathon bus driver

We are lucky enough to have the use of the Springboard minibus for both Brighton and London marathons again this year. London is covered but we need a willing driver for the Brighton bus who must have category D1 on their driving licence. You will be required to pick up passengers at BBHLC, drive to B’Ton, drop off, park up, spectate(?) and then pick up and drive back after all returnees have finished. Just CONTACT US if you are interested in giving a bit back.

Sussex Road Relays

Entries are now open (via Opentrack) for the Sussex Road Relays at Christ’s Hospital on Saturday, April 7, 2018. Please ask Pete O’Connell about being part of a team. Entries close Sunday 25th March. Further info HERE

South Downs Way RelayArguably the best ‘running’ day out of the year! We are looking for members to take part in this “invitation only” event of about 50 teams. Horsham Joggers have been invited once again to enter two teams (of six). This is a relay race over the 97 miles of the South Downs Way, starting at Beachy Head and finishing at Winchester. The teams consist of six runners who each run three non-consecutive legs of the relay. The distance of each leg is somewhere between 4 and 8 miles and you’ll have a good break between each of your 3 runs. Each runner will run somewhere between 15 – 18 miles over the course of the day, almost entirely off road. The team travel between the start/finish points of each leg by minibus and you will have a driver and navigator looking after you. There is a time limit to complete the event, meaning that an average pace per mile of just over 8.5 minutes is required (over the whole distance). In the past we have had teams consisting of a good mix of different paced runners, with some running faster and some slower than the 8.5 m/m average required. Although a fairly tough (it’s hilly!) and long day, it is a truly great event with a lot of team spirit and camaraderie.  Having done it twice I, and I’m sure everyone else who has ever taken part, will confirm that the sense of achievement and fun had is immeasurable. Entry cost is subsidised by the club, the cost per runner is £25.00 to cover minibus and fuel costs. In addition to 12 runners there are vacancies for a minibus driver and a navigator for each team.  At this stage if you would like to take part (or even if you only think you might be interested in taking part) or want to know more please CONTACT US. Full details of the event can be found on the organiser’s website: http://www.southdownsrelay.co.uk/ Get in touch and get your name on the list, you won’t regret it!

WSFRL fixtures

These are now up on their website (http://westsussexfunrunleague.org.uk/) and you can enter individual or multiple races for the year via the MemberZone. Please remember that if you are paying for more than just yourself, you need to include additional runner’s details in the “order notes” field within the checkout page otherwise we won’t know who is entering!

2018 Challenge Trophy races

Race 1 took place on 4^th Feb at the Chi 10k (see results round up) and we now look forward to race 2 at Hastings half on the 18^th of next month. The 10mile challenge will remain at Haywards Heath in May and the final race will be the Fittleworth 5 in September.

Membership renewals

Just a quick reminder that your membership expires on 31^st March each year. If you joined the club on or after 1^st Jan 18, you have paid up until 31^st Mar 19. You can now renew online via the MemberZone and your existing PayPal account. No paperwork, no paper money, no hassle! Also a reminder that UKA have increased affiliation to £15 for 2018/19. Happy days!

Data protection

At Horsham Joggers we pride ourselves on the way we store your data and make sure your personal details are safe. However, the law is changing in May to include greater scope and tougher punishments for those who fail to comply. As a result, England Athletics are asking us to put extra measures in place to make sure you agree with the way that we store and share your data. You will notice changes to our membership forms on the website and the MemberZone renewal procedure. If you have any questions, please CONTACT US

Horsham 10k update

Entry is now open and we also have volunteers for these new roles:-

• Field set up team leader
• Course and field break down team leader
• Volunteer coordinator

Now that we have a full rota of team leaders for the day, we will soon be asking for individual volunteers to join these teams. Please remember that we are hosting our home event for others to participate in and this relies on many volunteers to make it happen. If you are an hj member, we expect you to consider volunteering before applying to enter the race!

Gunpowder Trot organiser

Yes, it may be over eight months away but we will need a new organiser for this race to continue the great work by Victoria. Procedures are in place to repeat the event this year so we need a self motivated, organised individual to fulfil these tasks:

• Liaison with venue, land owners, local authority, local residents and medical providers.
• Organising a small team of leaders to deliver the various part of the race.
• Recruiting/coordinating volunteers with each sub-team leader.
• Monitoring entries and submitting to the league.
• Checking/purchasing the inventory for the race.
• Supervising the set up and delivery on the day.
• Keeping accurate accounts for submission to the treasurer.

Not an exhaustive list but if you think you have what it takes please CONTACT US

Dates for your diary

25^th Feb – Brighton Half

4^th March – Steyning Stinger Half or Marathon

4^th March – Eastbourne Half

18^th March – Hastings Half – SGP (hj Challenge Trophy event)

25^th March – Mel’s Milers 10k

2^nd April – Lewes Easter Monday Races – WSFRL

Don’t forget; if you’ve got something worthy of the newsletter then please let us know! Email: info@hj