Category Archives: News

VERY IMPORTANT INFO REGARDING THE NEW LEISURE CENTRE AT BBH!

After meeting the staff at “The Bridge” today these are the new arrangements going forward for assembly at the new leisure centre (this overrides anything mentioned in this weeks week@hj post on Facebook)
Tuesdays – if you walk as if going to the new reception area, entry via the bowling club car park, and follow the path round the back of the new building there is a paved area and a covered area where people can park bikes. We will meet there.

Thursdays – following the same route but this time all the way along to the entrance to the reception area but without entering, there is a small path on the left follow this down to the track.

Toilets are available to use in the cafe area of the centre on both nights, which are to the left of reception. Showering and changing facilities are ONLY available on Thursday evenings, to use please ask at reception.
I hope all this makes sense, spread the word. Thank you!
Phil

QUIZ NIGHT

Let’s get quizzical!

Yes you lovely people, it’s that time of year when we ask you to put on your general knowledge heads and join us for the legendary hj quiz night on Friday 16th November at Horsham Cricket and Sports Club, Cricket Field Road.

You can now register teams of maximum six players (min 2 hj members per team) with £18 per team payable on the night (that’s just £3 per person!)

Our new quiz master will be bringing 10 rounds of 10 questions on a wide range of subjects with a break half way through. The bar will be open for liquid refreshments but you can bring your own nibbles.

Doors open at 7pm and it’s eyes down at 7.30pm sharp!

To register your team, please CONTACT US

Good luck!

 

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 30th Sept

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 26th 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 7th 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 13th October. For more info CLICK HERE

Or CONTACT US to be put in touch with Pete.

Gunpowder Trot – 4th 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 9th 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 16th 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 11th 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

30th Sept – Windlesham House 4 (WSFRL)

30th Sept – Barns Green Half Marathon and 10k

7th Oct – Lewes Downland 10m (SGP)

7th Oct – Heron Way 10k

7th Oct – Bright 10

7th Oct – Downslink Ultra

13th Oct – Goodwood X-Country Relays

14th Oct – Great Walstead 5 (WSFRL)

21st Oct – Hove Prom 10k (SGP)

21st Oct – Amsterdam Marathon

27th Oct – Beechy Head Marathon/10k

28th Oct – Steepdown Challenge (WSFRL)

4th Nov – Gunpowder Trot (WSFRL)

16th Nov – hj quiz night (provisional)

18th Nov – Brighton 10k

 

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

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 19th August

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 15th 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 26th 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 – 4th 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 9th 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

Are you missing out on a great running experience?  Why not come along and support Horsham Joggers in the West Sussex Fun Run League (WSFRL) races?
The next race is the Fittleworth 5 mile run on Sunday 2nd September at 11:00am (there is also a Junior race at 10:15am). Adult race entry is only £3.00 through our MemberZone or £5.00 on the day. There are always fantastic tea and cakes afterwards in the village hall and this is also a Horsham Joggers Challenge Trophy race – so would you like to receive a trophy from the club for being best in your age group?
Come along and join us for a great run in the Sussex countryside. Every ability welcome, so step out of your comfort zone and have some fun. There are 5 races left this year, plus our own club race ‘The Gunpowder Trot’ on Sunday 4th November. Club members are required to assist at this race before taking part. Just a little reminder that entry to the WSFRL races closes on Wednesday for a Sunday race and Sunday for a Wednesday evening race. This is to allow our bulk entry to be submitted to the league in good time for the race. Entry on the day is subject to availability and a bit more expensive!
Goodwood Running Festival

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 – 30th 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

19th Aug – 13 The Hard Way

26th Aug – Arundel 10k

26th Aug – Newick Will Page 10k

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

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

4th Sept – Itchingfield time trial 4 of 4

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

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

9th Sept – Eridge Park 10 Trail Challenge

9th Sept – Bacchus Marathon/Half Marathon

16th Sept – Richmond Marathon

23rd Sept – Tilgate Forest 5 (WSFRL)

30th Sept – Windlesham House 4 (WSFRL)

30th Sept – Barns Green Half Marathon

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

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 24th June

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

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 20th 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 15th 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 9th 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 30th Sept. The plan starts on 1st 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 – 4th 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 orr 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

24th June – Heathfield 10k (SGP)

24th June – Polesden Lacey 10k

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

30th June – Richmond Park 5/10k

1st July – Bewl 15 (SGP)

4th July – Roundhill Romp (WSFRL)

8th July – North Downs Way Marathon

8th July – Cranleigh 10k

8th July – Eastbourne 10k

11th July – Brighton Phoenix 10k (SGP)

14th July – Riverside Walk

29th July – Seven Stiles (WSFRL)

1st Aug – Highdown Hike (WSFRL)

19th Aug – Hornets Stinger (WSFRL)

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

 

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 13th May

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 9th 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 20th June

URGENT! – Membership renewals

A reminder that your membership runs from 1st April to 31st 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 25th 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 25th 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 16th 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 4th 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

16th May – Littlehampton Beach Run (WSFRL)

20th May – Horsham 10k (SGP)

23rd May – Trundle Hill Run (WSFRL)

27th May – Rye 10 miles

2nd June – South Downs Way Relay 100m

3rd June – Worthing 10k

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

12th June – 2nd Itchingfield Time Trial

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

23rd June – Downland Dash (WSFRL)

23rd 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.

 

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 8th April

Committee activity

A small committee met on Wednesday 4th 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 9th May.

Membership renewals

Just a quick reminder that your membership has now elapsed (unless you joined between 1st Jan and 31st 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

15th Apr – Brighton Marathon

22nd April – London Marathon

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

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

6th May – 3 Forts Challenge

7th May – Burgess Hill 10k (MSWM)

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

13th May – Hastings 5m (SGP)

13th May – Run Wisborough 5/10k

16th May – Littlehampton Beach Run (WSFRL)

20th May – Horsham 10k (SGP)

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

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 25th Feb

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 21st 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 4th 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 31st 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 15th 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 4th Feb at the Chi 10k (see results round up) and we now look forward to race 2 at Hastings half on the 18th 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 31st March each year. If you joined the club on or after 1st Jan 18, you have paid up until 31st 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

25th Feb – Brighton Half

4th March – Steyning Stinger Half or Marathon

4th March – Eastbourne Half

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

25th March – Mel’s Milers 10k

2nd 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

 

HORSHAM JOGGERS NEWS – 14th January

Committee activity

Your committee met on Wednesday 10th Jan with a few more new guests and discussed the usual club finances, membership and calendar as well as marathon places, data protection, club kit, award nominations and Challenge Trophy races. More on some of this later. We agreed to meet again on 21st February.

The result round up

It’s been a quiet few weeks over the festive period but we’ve compiled this item from press reports by Phil over the last six weeks. Just CLICK HERE for the latest race result roundup.

Andy Spriggs

As many of you will have seen within our special tribute, Andy’s funeral will take place at Worthing Crematorium on Wednesday 17th January 2018 at 11am with Sandra requesting no flowers, just donations direct to The MND Association or at the service or via the undertaker, Freeman Bros – Horsham, if you would like to.

JOY, NOY and VOY nominations

We’ve had a few nominations but it’s disappointing to think that this isn’t being well supported by our (over!) 500 members. There is still time to look back over the past year and think about who are your Jogger, Newcomer and Volunteer of the year. JOY can be for any reason which makes a current member stand out in your eyes. Newcomers will be those who have joined since 1st Jan 2017. Vollies might be those who aren’t necessarily the best runners (if they run at all?) but are always there supporting and getting involved with the club. So email info@hj and give your nominees with a brief reason why you think they should be considered. We will close nominations on 20th Feb.

2018 Challenge Trophy races

Each year the committee select 4 races for the club Challenge Trophies and for 2018 we have decided to mix it up a bit! (CLICK HERE FOR DETAILS) The half marathon challenge race will change from Barn Green to Hastings and the WSFRL race will change from the Steepdown Challenge to the Fittleworth 5. The 10k and 10mile challenge races will remain the same with Chichester and Haywards Heath respectively.

Sussex AA – 20 mile road race

Ed – We’ve had this request from Tom at Sussex AA……….

Sussex AA have accepted an invitation to field teams in the Essex 20 mile road race over an undulating 3 lap course around quiet country lanes of north east Essex, starting and finishing at Langham Village Hall, Langham,  at 10:00am on Sunday 4th March 2018. The counties taking part are Essex, Kent, Hertfordshire, Cambridge, Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Norfolk and Sussex.  Teams are 4 to run with 3 to score for both men and women and team scores are based on the cumulative time for the first 3 runners over the line.  Standards are understandably quite high but a strong Sussex team would be in the mix for medals. As a guide we are initially looking for interest from Sussex qualified men who have run close to or quicker than one or more of the following in the previous 12 months………….

1 hour 56 mins for 20 miles, 2 hours 38 mins for the marathon or 1 hour 16 mins for the half marathon.

Similarly we are looking at times in the last 12 months quicker than or close to the following from Sussex qualified ladies wishing to be considered………….

2 hour 19 mins for 20 miles. 3 hours 07 mins for the marathon or 1 hour 29 mins for the half marathon.

Anyone who wishes to be considered please let Tom Ulliott know (email details available) by Sunday 21st January, providing information to support your application.  An initial short-list of 6 for each race (ladies and men) will be drawn up from which the final 4 PLUS a non-travelling reserve for each race will be announced by 12th Feb. PLEASE NOTE – this race is just 6 days before the national inter counties cross country at Loughborough so be sure you have fully considered this if you wish to be selected for both events.

Club marathon places

Congratulations to our three members who gained a place in the London Marathon via the recent club ballots. We still have 2 places for the Brighton Marathon available if anyone wants them? Just email info@hj to save a place. For those lucky enough to have a club place, please remember to wear your official club race vest or t-shirt when representing your club. These are available to buy via the MemberZone.

Spring Marathon Training

This continues at 9am every Sunday and our friends at BBHLC have requested that we don’t enter the building or gather in the reception area before the 9am start. Please gather outside by the round bench, listen to the 9am briefing and then use the loos if required before leaving for the run. James still requires volunteers to organise the route and refreshments on 18th and 25th Feb and again on 15th April. Email info@hj if you can help.

West Sussex Fun Run League round up

Horsham Joggers Seniors finished 9th in the league in 2017 out of a total participation of 17 teams. The Juniors finished 6th out of 13 clubs; this was a fantastic result for them as they usually have only 3 members taking part. The final race of the year was the Hangover 5 with 25 very eager joggers who enjoyed running through endless mud with very slippery conditions; the atmosphere and language was electric. Two joggers completed all 17 races. David Dawson and Jenny Boyd will receive completers T-shirts. The 2018 calendar will be released in the next few days. A new race is being introduced to add to the variety. The first race of the season will be Lewes – 5 miles on Easter Monday, 2nd April. If you haven’t taken part in any of these many varied races, why not come along. You will be made very welcome with tea and cakes, fish & chips, and beer and barbecues to help you recover when finished!

Group leaders required

As well as more usual Tuesday group leaders, we are specifically looking for a half marathon training leader to run in parallel with the current Spring marathon training programme. A schedule, maps and advice are all available for an organiser to take this on. Please apply to info@hj for more info.

Keep on Running!

With the many local initiatives (including Parkrun) allowing people to “Get Running!” up to 5k, we want to change our focus towards keeping running by offering a 5k to 10k improvers programme. We are looking for a keen and motivated leader in running fitness (LIRF) to take this on. If you don’t have a LIRF qualification, the club is happy to pay for the training required (subject to course completion and subsequent input to the club) so this is a great opportunity to expand your knowledge base and give something back to the club. Email info@hj for more details.

Charitable donations

Ed – We have received a lovely thank you from Ian at “Out There” West Sussex………

On behalf of everyone at Out There I would like to thank Horsham Joggers for nominating us to receive some of the fundraising money you make throughout the year. It was a nice surprise to see an email saying we had been put forward for the donation and an even bigger surprise when I saw the amount. The money will help us with the activities we run and go towards buying new equipment and developing links with the local community. Thank you to all the runners and helpers and Horsham Joggers for all their efforts in raising the money for not just ourselves but also the other organisations you support.

Horsham 10k organisers needed

We welcome Lin Whiting and Geoff Parker as our new Race Director tag team but the following key organising roles will still need to be filled in order to deliver this year’s race which is due to take place on Sunday 20th May:-

  • Course and field set up team leader
  • Course and field break down team leader

The basics are already in place, we just need motivated, organised and committed individuals to bring their skills to the table. You’ll be guided and encouraged all the way and you can make a huge difference!

Discounted Running Mags!

Ed – hj member, Martyn has a nice deal for you………….

Thanks to work (I manage and look after all the systems, software, websites and processes for my company I work for, including the subscription bureau) I’ve managed to get discounted offers to both Men’s Running and Women’s Running magazines:

https://mags.imbmsubscriptions.com/wrunclub/

https://mags.imbmsubscriptions.com/mrunclub/

Feel free to use this and advertise the offer to fellow members as you see fit. I don’t get any commission for this so it’s simply a benefit I’ve managed to source.

Dates for your diary

4th Feb – Chichester 10k (hj Challenge Trophy event)

11th Feb – Worthing Half

25th Feb – Brighton Half

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

 

ANDREW SPRIGGS – 29.11.48 to 28.12.17

A bright light was extinguished from the Horsham Joggers family over Christmas. This is our tribute to a great man.

Born in 1948 in North London, distance running wasn’t Andy’s first passion; he became a black belt in judo at university and then went on to become a coach in the sport. He moved around with work from Leicestershire, Hampshire, Oxfordshire, Wiltshire and eventually to Horsham in 1988 to work as a retail pricing analyst with ExxonMobil at their Leatherhead office, from where he later took early retirement.

Already in his forties, he joined Horsham Joggers in 1996 and became a regular and committed member, often helping newcomers, leading groups, participating in races and eventually taking over the organisation of a flagging Horsham 10k race in 2005, as well as standing on the committee for 4 years. His contribution to the 10k was pivotal when he combined his other passion for fundraising and he joined forces with the Horsham Lions Club to deliver an improved race from a brand new venue. With his enthusiasm for Horsham Joggers and the Horsham Lions Club, he almost single-handedly drove the event forward for eight years to its current status as a regular feature on the annual race calendar. Andy stood down as Race Director in 2012 but continued to be on hand for the new administration in the following years.

When diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in 2011, the 46 times half marathon and 39 times marathon man’s ability slowed but he still continued walking with the pub run group and kept beavering away fundraising with the Horsham Lions and MND Association. With his mobility becoming less easy, Andy found new ways to stay mobile and set his sights on raising funds for the West Sussex branch of the MND Association by teaming up with nephew, Chris to complete more marathons while being pushed in a rickety NHS wheelchair! His exploits were even put into print in Chris’s 2015 book, “The Reason I Run”.

Andy leaves his wife of 44 years Sandra. Daughter, Sarah. Son, Paul and daughter, Joanna as well as six grandchildren and a wider group of family and friends. Andy’s funeral will take place at Worthing Crematorium on Wednesday 17th January 2018 at 11am with Sandra requesting no flowers, just donations direct to The MND Association or at the service or via the funeral director, Freeman Bros – Horsham, if you would like to.

He will be missed enormously by all those who knew him but will definitely be enjoying his “last lap” up there!

………………………………………………………………………………

Some hj members have provided us with their personal thoughts and tributes below:

Alan SmithI was saddened to hear that Andy had passed away. I have been a friend of his for a good number of years, having trained with and run against him in numerous events. There was already a friendly competitiveness between us with honours even I think. Andy never complained of his condition to me. He was one of those genuine people, no side to him and never a bad word to say. He was brave courageous and most of all a very nice bloke. I will miss him.

Mike De FrateschiAndy was truly inspirational. As one of a kind he was totally selfless giving much to others whilst asking for nothing in return. He dealt with his cruel illness with great dignity and courage. We shall miss him. RIP Andy.

Sue SimmonsAndy gave so much to the club, both on the committee and running every week and his bravery in managing his MND meant conversations with him were always enjoyable. He excelled at being a marathon runner but always had time to run with club runners and encourage anyone new to running. He pioneered the Horsham 10k from being a small local race to one of the main SGP races. He will be sadly missed but remembered as an inspiration to everyone at the club.

Edward SmithI was saddened to hear the sad news of Andy’s passing. We were in the same running group and I will always remember him as a true gentleman who kept the rest of us focused on the training (usually hard training if Andy set the pace!) in hand when we were worried more about which pub serves the best pint. In recent years when I bumped into him he would always remember my name and he definitely showed true grit with the situation he found himself in. He will be truly missed.

Alan PettittAndy was a truly remarkable person who I have been most privileged to run with since I started running with the club. He has been an inspiration to me both in my running and in life. I was in awe since the time he came flying past me half way round the Brighton half. How could that old fella run faster than me? He introduced me to pub runs and the joy of running across muddy fields. He ran dozens of marathons when I thought that one was an achievement. He never complained, just got on with things, right up to his last days, always helping others. He did so much for the club and its members, we can forever be grateful and I will miss him dearly.

Peter DudmanAndy had always been a great participant and supporter of the Pub Runs and the Winter Sunday Runs for many years. Not only running when he was able, but planning and organising routes. He continued his support, when eventually confined to a chair. Whilst Sandra did the walks he would attend to be sure that the pubs and beer came up to our standards . Andy will be missed by us all . 

Olive HobbsIt`s difficult to pen adequate words and I sure that there will be a vein running through thoughts and comments that will honour dear Andy. I mainly think of all the energy he (and Sandra) gave to raising awareness of MND,fund raising with street collections, quiz nights and so forth. Also being very warm and genuine human being.

Pete O’ConnellVery sad. Andy was a massive help to Val when she started training with the club. I have film of Andy outsprinting Alan Smith in our golden mile which I happily copied for them causing much friendly banter! Rock on, RIP my man .

Ben AgerosRest in peace Andy. Good memories of our London Marathon training for CHASE back in 2006

Mariann BourneVery sad news. Ours deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Sandra and family. We have many fond memories of Andy helping and encouraging us on our long Sunday runs and the cold evenings on the track doing yassos. Be at peace Andy.

Sue BinksRest in peace Andy, always a sweet and generous man.

Michael SaundersA truely sad day for all who knew him. Always a gentleman, never an unkind word for anyone and always ready to help and give his time not only to help new members of the HJ’s family but to the club also.

Raff VitaleSad day for HJ!! Was always so encouraging and full of life, supporting all runners whatever their ability. Andy will always be remembered. Condolences go out to all the family.

Jason WalkerBless you Andy it was a pleasure to have known you. Andy helped me enter my first ever race as a Horsham Jogger all those years ago as I didn’t have a clue how to do it as daft as it sounds. He was a very generous man and always went out of his way to help you. He will be sadly missed by all! Xx

Paul OakleyAndy was one of the first club members I chatted to when I was thinking of joining the club over 10 years ago. His friendly manner was a great encouragement. Condolences to the family.

Phil LibermanRIP Andy and my condolences to the Spriggs family. It was always great to see you at the pub runs, a lovely guy, thank you for everything you did for HJ.

Dan HolderRIP Andy. Xx

Mikey O’GradyThis is truly sad news. Great bloke. Sympathy to the family.

Paul AylettI first met Andy in 2001 when I joined Horsham Joggers and turned up on a Tuesday evening to find everyone leaving without me (as it used to be!). Andy stopped and turned to me and said “Come on, you look like you’re faster than us old blokes!). I ran with him and “Big Andy” (Malpress). Over the coming weeks and months he kind of took me under his wing and built me up towards time trialing and then the Barns Green half before encouraging me to do my one and only marathon in London. Later he encouraged me to help with the Horsham 10k and in 2012 when he stood down, I took over and tried to fill those extremely big shoes of his. The race was already a success under his leadership and he was still on hand to help us take it to the next level. When confined to a wheelchair, Andy came to the track one Thursday evening and I had the pleasure of pushing him for a lap or two. It was hard enough on the flat so I have no idea how he and Chris managed marathons with it! As has already been said, Andy was a truly genuine, kind and generous man whose focus is legendary. A life cut short by a vicious disease which has no cure! RIP Andy.

Neil and Val McLachlanAndy was such a lovely man. He was so kind and generous, always thinking of others even when he himself had the most cruel disease to contend with. It was a privilege to have him as a friend. I will always remember the run six of us had on the High Weald Way over five days. We bonded together and had such a good time. When Andy could no longer run eight of us would get together over a meal and always had so many laughs. We are pleased you are no longer suffering Andy. Rest in peace.

Emma Walters – I didn’t know Andy but when I first started running and on my 3rd parkrun in October 2015 I remember seeing a man being pushed around in his wheelchair at great speed and I thought that was amazing. I went into work and told many of my patients how parkrun really was accessible for all and it has encouraged those with complex disabilities to take part in parkrun. I later found out that it was Andy Spriggs. If only he knew how that event that day has inspired so many. 

Pete NoadI have so many memories of Andy that it is difficult to pick out one in particular. As someone once said”, I am sending you a long letter because I didn’t have time to write a short one”. When moving I draw up a list of things would like from a new house and area; south facing garden, good size garage, quiet neighbourhood etc. On my list, near the top, was “join a running club” It was the best thing I did, yet if it wasn’t for Andy I might never have joined Horsham Joggers. Andy & I joined the Joggers on the same day in August 1996. In those days we in met in Horsham Park. When we arrived there was no one there, only Andy and I. We introduced ourselves and decided to run up to Broadbridge Heath. We found that everyone had run to the Itchingfield time trial. We both looked at each other, I was all for going home, on the basis that this was a serious running club. Andy however just said, let’s do it. As with with MND, Andy never complained “just got on with it” So off we went, ran the time trial and joined the Joggers, the rest is history….thanks Andy. He contributed so much to the club, even when suffering from MND, never once complained “just got on with it.”

Ray AgerosRest in peace my friend, I’ll continue to remember  our many years that we have been in Joggers, & now that I’m an all year walker I’ll remember you every time I put my winter gloves on, thanks for leaving them to me .

David SandhamI was sad to hear the news about Andy Spriggs , he was one of the key people who welcomed me into Horsham Joggers in 2004. He organized a multi day running trip along the Offa’s Dyke path the following year, with other stalwarts Alan Smith, Andy Malpress, Pete Noad and Iain Campbell, which was instrumental in convincing me that I could run a marathon – I shall be forever grateful for that. A truly inspirational man.