News

23 Dec: Boxing Day run [Top]

If you'd like to run off some Christmas pud please join Paul & Gail Lowe for a run at Hanchurch Woods on Boxing Day.

Please note the run will now start at 10am.

12 Dec: Charles full set! [Top]

Congatulations to Charles Larsson for completing all of this year's NSRRA fixtures - one of only 9 people to do so.

12 Dec: NSCCL Roundup [Top]

A very cold Leek hosted the final race in the NSCCL, with Newcastle athletes and teams to the fore in a number of races.

Connor Bentley maintained his good form by winning the final race and claiming overall individual victory in the U11s, with Newcastle also winners in the team race after good support throughout the series from Jacob Droogmanes and Adam Fradley. Well done also to Ambrose Morris for completing all 4 races.

In the U13 Boys consistent performances across the season from Harvey Myatt-Winterton, Ben Hill, David Conlon & Isaac Edge saw the team finish 3rd overall

The U15 Boys saw Chris Whitehurst put in another good shift in finishing 20th on the day and 9th overall.

Newcastle U17 Boys managed 2nd overall for the season, with Paul Fradley completing all four races and finishing 5th overall.

The U11 Girls completed the league in 5th overall with Elizabeth Bridgwater and Bethany Edge completing all 4 races. Emily Morris was first back on the day in 23rd.

The U13 Girls team fell just short of the medals in 4th overall, with Sophie Goodfellow (6th), Rachel Twardochleb (8th) and Laura Whitehurst (11th) a model of consistency across the fixtures.

For Newcastle Ladies 3 was the magic number as they finished 3rd on the day, 3rd overall team and had 3rd overall indivdual in Cath Dulla.

Also completing the full series were Julia Matheson, Wendy Swift, Charlie Weller, Rebecca Ibbs and Julia Bridgewater, a great achievement in her first cross country season.

Wendy Swift was 4th F40 and Julia Matheson 1st F45, compensating for a tough run on Saturday.

Last but not least, the senior men put in their best performance of the season, although it wasn't enough to push the team into the medals.

Jamie Pringle was best placed on the day in 11th to secure a top 20 placing overall with Tim Twentyman 2nd V45 overall and Mike Whitmore 1st V70.

Also completing all 4 races were Graham Fletcher, Nigel Symms, Sean Lindop, Martin Bailey and Neil Gerrity.

Please click here to see the results.

Well done to all involved but remember the season in not over yet! If you wish to run for the club in the County, Midland and National Championships please let Rebecca know asap.

1 Nov: London Marathon Places [Top]

Congratulations to Graham Fletcher, Graham Kemp and Roy Dudley who were the lucky winners of the club's London Marathon ballot last night.

31 October: NSCCL Review [Top]

Connor Bentley was the star of the day in Saturday's 2nd fixture of the NSCCL at Park Hall. Connor was a comfortable winner of the U11 Boys race and was helped by team mates Adam Fradley, Jacob Droogmans and Ambrose Morris to 1st team on the day.

In the U13 Boys solid packing saw the team finish 4th with Ben Hill first back in 16th.

Chris Whitehurst was our sole representative in the U15 Boys finishing in 25th but the U17 Men managed 3rd team thanks to Paul Fradley (14th), James Davies (15th) and Jonothon Whitehurst (20th).

In the Girls U11 race Natasha McHugh was first back for the club in 19th with Bethan Hill finishing 35th on her debut and the team finishing 7th on the day.

The U13 Girls team of Sophie Goodfellow (7th), Rebecca Twardochleb (12th) and Laura Whitehurst (25th) finished the day in 5th place.

In the U15 Girls and U17 Girls races Charlie Egan and Charlotte Dale both had to plough a lonely furrow finishing 12th and 6th in their respective races.

Bolstered by the return of the Chester-marathonettes a 14-strong ladies team secured 3rd place against strong opposition. Catherine Dulla was again to the fore in 4th with top ten placings from Michelle Buckle & Julia Matheson.

The men's team found the going slightly tougher but still finished a more than respectable 6th with a strong turnout of 16 runners. Jamie Pringle lead Newcastle home in 18th, with Sean Lindop (74th) and Matt Driver (76th) closing the count.

Photos to follow.

Please click here to see the results.

18 October: Billy elected Chairman [Top]

Due to a change in work commitments Rob Ibbs has decided to resign as Chairman with immediate effect.

Billy Meakin has been elected as Chairman and Graham Fletcher as Vice Chairman by the Committee.

On behalf of the club the Committee would like to thank Rob for his efforts as Chairman and on the Committee over many years.

17 October: Constitution changes [Top]

Please read the following from Rebecca Ibbs, Club Secretary:

"We have been looking into updating our Club Constitution. After discussions with England Athletics and looking at the constitutions of other Athletics Clubs we have come up with a draft version.

At the AGM on 3rd October 2011, copies of the draft constitution were given out to all members present.

Please click here do view the draft consitiution.

To view the existing Constitution please click here.

I urge everyone to read through the proposed constitution as there are a number of changes. If you have any concerns, queries, objections or changes that you wish to be made then please put these in writing to myself by post (Rebecca Ibbs, Club Secretary, 21 Durham Drive, Lightwood, S-O-T, Staffs, ST3 4TG) or email by Wednesday 9th November.

All replies will be logged and then sent out in a document for all members to see (without names on). Non-replies will assume that you accept all the changes.

On Monday 14th November at 7pm there will be an EGM (Extra-ordinary General Meeting) to discuss the changes and members comments on them.

Again I urge as many of you as possible to attend to ensure that we have a constitution that is right for our Club."

Thanks, Rebecca Ibbs

17 October: London Marathon draw [Top]

The club have 3 places for the 2012 Virgin London Marathon.

The draw for these places will take place on Monday 31st October in the Clubhouse at 7.30pm and will only be open to those with rejection slips.

If the places are not filled then there will be a second draw for those who informed the webmaster within 24 hours of their failure to enter the online ballot due to technical reasons.

Please note that the places will only be available to members who have paid their subscription (including England Athletics levy) for the coming year and have been a member for at least 12 months.

14 October: Subscriptions Post Box [Top]

A Subscriptions 'Post Box' is now available in the Club House to post your membership forms and payment (cheque only) - envelopes provided!

Please see the Membership page for more details.

10 October: Chester Marathon [Top]

At last! After many attempts and much pain and suffering Michelle Buckle finally cracked the 3 hour barrier in Sunday's Chester Marathon, finishing in 2.59.03 and 6th lady overall.

Rumour has it this will be Michelle's last marathon and if so it was a fine way to sign off.

Also completing the event where Mel Young (3.21.01), Helen Hall (4.04.26), Rachel Condliffe (4:29:44), Lynne Frith (4:42:47) and Belinda Riley (4:52:31).

Well done to all!

Please click here to see the results.

10 October: Congleton Half [Top]

Despite his efforts from the previous day Mark Flint ran well for 12th place in 1.20.50. Ian Sparks was next back in 19th in 1.23.16, just holding off the ever improving Paul Eardley who finished 21st in 1.23.22.

Graham Fletcher and marathon man Nigel Symms (is there any stopping him!?) also competed after Saturday's North Staffs Fixture.

Please click here to see the results.

10 October: NSCCL Review [Top]

The cross country season kicked off on Saturday at Winsford with the first fixture of the North Staffs Cross Country League.

Despite a clash with a number of other races, such as Congleton Half and Chester Marathon, there was a good turnout of club members with many new faces, eagre to test themselves over the fast, flat course!

The club managed to complete teams in most age groups with all well placed for the remaining fixtures.

The U11 Boys team performed well for 2nd place on the day and Connor Bentley first back in 3rd.

James Fradley was our only individual winner on the day in the U13 Boys but good support from Ben Hill and Harvery Myatt-Winterton saw the team finish 3rd overall.

Nathan Chester and Chris Whitehurst performed well in the U15 Boys but were lacking the 3rd runner to complete the team, although for the first time in a while the U17 Boys fielded a complete team and finished 4th, with Paul Fradley first back in 16th.

The U11 Girls team finished in 6th place (Natasha McHugh, Bethany Edge, Elizabeth Bridgwater) and the U13 Girls 5th, with Sophie Goodfellow first back in 10th.

As with the U15 Boys, the U15 Girls didn't complete a team but Charlie Egan and Katie Salt ran well for 10th & 16th respectively.

And onto the oldies (but goodies!)...

In the Ladies race Katherine Dulla placed a good 4th against high quality opposition with Julia Matheson finishing 8th. With a number of the team making their cross country debut they all performed brilliantly to finish 3rd on the day.

In the Men's race a number of runners turned out despite also planning to race the next day (thank you Mark, Graham and Nigel) and helped the team to 4th on the day with 278 points, a total that only just exceeded the combined ages of the 6 counters!

Mike Griffiths was first back in 13th with Jamie Pringle close behind in 15th and debutants Pete Swinnerton, Christian Spencer and Nick Mellor in 100th, 164th and 179th respectively.

Please click here to see the results.

5 October: Subscriptions due! [Top]

Subscriptions are now due for the 2011/12 season. Please see the Membership page for more details of the 2011/12 rates as agreed at the AGM on Monday 3rd October.

Please note that Mike Griffiths will be taking over from George Davenport as Subscriptions Secretary for the coming year.

20 Sept: Ladies cross country [Top]

Message from Michelle Buckle:

The Cross Country season is upon us. The 1st fixture is Saturday 8th October @ Winsford, unfortunately a few of us will be off in Chester for the marathon the following day so will not be running. I am trying to make sure that we have a team out in both the open race and the veteran.

It is 4 runners per team and a veteran can count for both teams. The ladies race starts at 1.30pm and is 5k. There is no cost to the race as it is paid for by the club.

I’d love to get loads of you out, don’t think you aren’t good enough or you won’t be in the team.

It’s about having fun and being part of the club/team and getting to know each other.

Could you please let Michelle know which races you are able to do and let’s hope we can get a strong team out & get some medals!

20 Sept: Latest road rankings [Top]

Please find attached the road rankings for 2011 so far:

Ladies Mens

This is a list of the top 3 performances by members of the club in all the different distances. Thank you to Michelle Buckle for putting the list together

12 Sept: Heart of England success [Top]

Newcastle completed this year's Heart of England league on a high by finishing joint 3rd team on the day to secure a fantastic 3rd place overall in the league, a good result given that the club have only just been promoted to this divsion.

Well done to the individual winner's on the day, including Sophie Goodfellow, James Fradley, Jacob Droogmans, Edward Keane, David Conlon, Chloe Lindop, Laura Whitehurst, Bea Bobbins and Nathan Chester, but thanks and congratulations must also go to all who took part throughout the season and contributed to a good team result.

Thank you also to Julia Bailey for organising/cajooling the team!

12 Sept: Michelle wins Ipstones 5 [Top]

Michelle Buckle was a clear winner of Saturday's Ipstones 5, with Mark Flint also to the fore in 4th overall and first V45

Please click here to see the results.

7 Sept: Andy Webster run [Top]

Reminder to all that the Andy Webster run is fast approaching and will take place next Monday (12th) at 7pm with entries being taken from 6.30pm. This year's route has been determined and will be revealed on the night!

Click here for more details.

7 Sept: AGM - Start time changed [Top]

Please note the the AGM will now start at 7pm on Monday 3rd October rather than 7.30pm.

7 Sept: Julia crowned World Champion [Top]

Julia Matheson competed in the ITU World Long Course Duathlon Championships in Switzerland at the weekend and emerged a runaway winner in the Ladies 45-49 Category after 8 hours of competition. Julia had to tackle a 10 km run, then 150 km on the bike and finishing with a further 30 km run and finished 14 minutes clear of her nearest rival.

Click here for more details.

Well done Julia and good luck in the upcoming World Duathlon Championships to be held in Spain on 25th September!

Good luck to Mark Flint, Tim Twentyman and Ray Morris who are also competing for Great Britain in the same event.

7 Sept: Wolverhampton Marathon [Top]

Well done to those who completed the Wolverhampton Marathon on Sunday, including a couple of first timers.

Craig Taylor was first back for the club in 3.18.27 (45th) with Jane Holt ducking under 4 hours with 3.58.29.

Charles Larsson finished in 4.03.54 and Nigel Symms just a couple of minutes behind in 4.05.41.

Please click here to see the results.

26 August: AGM [Top]

This year's AGM will be held on Monday 3th October at the clubhouse, starting at 7.00pm.

If anybody has any issues they would like be discussed on the night then please email Rebecca Ibbs before the meeting.

All club members are encouraged to attend so you can have a say in the running of your club.

22 August: Michelle GB Champ [Top]

Michelle Buckle was crowned Britsh Masters Half Marathon champion yesterday in the F35 category. Held in conjunction with the Leek Half Marathon Michelle recorded 1:29:29 to finish 3rd lady and 32nd overall.

Mark Flint put in another good performance to finish 12th overall and 2nd V45 in 1:23:26. Despite the tough course Rachel Tweedie recorded a new PB of 1:54:55.

Please click here to see the results.

7 July: 24 Hour Party People [Top]

Charles Larsson and Jason Blount are taking part in a 24 hour challenge around Northwood this weekend in aid of Cancer Research.

Charles will be completing 20 hours before zooming over to Cheadle to take part in the Cheadle 4.

If you can sponsor/support them please do and there will be prizes for the 3 people who work out how many kilometres Charles will cover in 20 hours to the nearest kilometre.

Good luck both and hope the weather is kind.

30 June: Trafford AC Open [Top]

Jessica Ennis was on hand to cheer on a group from the Club who competed at Stretford on Wednesday night in the Trafford AC Open meeting.

The Martin Bailey lead quartet all competed in the 800m and managed a couple of PBs between them.

Paul Fradley recorded a new best of 2:19:48 as did Hannah Jones who finished in 2:42:38. Amy and Laura Whitehurst also competed and achieved times of 3:12:97 and 3:18:0 respectively.

28 June: Heart of England [Top]

Newcastle finished a solid 4th in the first fixture of the Heart of England league, a good result following last year's promotion to Division 2.

There were a number of encouraging performances and points gained across a number of events.

The U11s of Adam Fradley, Jacob Droogmans , Natasha McHugh and Naomi Wolfe had a busy afternoon, taking part in 4 events each including the relay in which they placed 6th.

Likewise in the U13s James Fradley and Isaac Edge between them scored well in the 100, 200, 800, Long Jump & Shot!

Chloe Lindop was a double winner in the U13 Girls in the 100 and 200, with good support from Sophie Goodfellow, Laura Whitehurst, Phoebe Phillips & Jasmine Parry.

In the U15s Nathan Chester and Abbie White had to battle alone, with Nathan best performance a 2nd place in the 800.

In the U17s/Seniors Charlotte Dale finished second in the 1500 in 5.17.2 with Lorraine Droogmans marking her debut with a win in the 1500 B race.

Well done and thank you to all those who travelled to Dudley and competed/officiated

Results to follow.

28 June: Shugborough Relays [Top]

Newcastle managed to turn out 13 teams in last Wednesday's Shugborough Relays. The event was as busy and enjoyable as ever and topped of by the annual round of sausage and chips at the pub (thanks Rebecca!).

Newcastle picked up a couple of team awards with the U52s 'Super Charged' boys team of James, Paul and Adam Fradley and Isaac Edge clear winners in their category, with James fastest leg overall and quicker than many seniors!

The Ladies were a close second place behind a strong Trentham team with Jaqui Slack 2nd fastest overall in 11.38, with the B and C teams in 15th and 18th respectively. The Ladies 160 Vets team were 5th.

The Men's team managed 8th place with the Men's 160 Vets teams finishing in 18th and 23rd and the Ultra Super Vets 7th.

In the mixed U64 race Newcastle were placed 5th and 9th and the U52 girls finished just out of the medals in 4th.

Well done to all who took part, especially those who filled the gaps to run two legs.

Please click here to see the results.

27 June: Stone 10k [Top]

The promised heat wave duly arrived making the going tough in Sunday's Stone 10k.

First back for the club was Mike Griffiths in 7th (35.48) followed by Matt Driver in 11th in a new PB of 37.02. Mark Flint was 2nd M45 in 37.22 and 14th overall, helping the men's team win the team prize.

Michelle Buckle was the first lady back in 4th overall (1st F35) in 40.47.

Please click here to see the results.

24 June: Are we nearly there yet? [Top]

Julia and Martin Bailey will be cycling from Lands End to Jon O Groats in aid on Cancer Research UK, starting on 30th July.

If you would like to support them please visit their Are we nearly there yet? blog or JustGiving site.

To support the cause Julia and Martin have also arranged an additional fundraising event.

In the week commencing 27th June you can enter a 400m limp wrist event (no watch allowed) for £1 on either Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday night (or do all 3!).

The task is to run 2 400m laps at your own pace with a recovery in between.

There will be a prize for the person whose guess is closest to their actual time.

You can do the lap as part of your warm-up or cool-down or build it into your track session and if you want to do more than 2 its 50p per extra lap!

All proceeds go to Cancer Research UK.

Good luck Julia and Martin!

23 June: James improves again [Top]

James Fradley lowered his 1500m time once more and consolidated his position at the top of the U13 1500m rankings at the Charnwood AC Open Meeting on 9th June.

Competing against older runners James managed to win his race in 4.33.16.

Please click here to see the result.

14 June: 10k PB for Wendy [Top]

Wendy Swift achieved another PB on Sunday in the Liverpool Tunnel 10k. Wendy completed the course in 44.35 and finished 11th female and 1st F40.

Please click here to see the result.

13 June: When it rains, it pours... [Top]

But it didn't stop a large contingent of members from taking part in a very cold and wet Potters 'Arf on Sunday - at least there was no danger of dehydration this year!

Best performance of the 35 members who finished was from Michelle Buckle who placed 3rd overall (1st F35) in 01:26:50.

Mark Flint was an impressive 9th overall (1.20.45) and 2nd V45 with Ian Sparks showing good form for 11th in 1.22.23.

And despite the tough conditons and big hills there even some PBs, with Jane Holt running 01:45:34, Nicola Lomas 01.47.11 and Daniel Peel improving his best by over 5 minutes to 1.34.51.

Well done to all who took part and hope you've managed to dry out!

Please click here to see the results.

6 June: Another day, another PB! [Top]

James Fradley's good form continued last Monday in the Trafford AC Grand Prix with a new PB in the 800m of 2.10.73. This now means James is top ranked in the UK for 1500m and 800, and is 11th on the All Time List for U13 800m.

Adam Fradley also recorded a new PB in the U11s long jump, jumping to 3.34m for 2nd place. Well done both.

6 June: Shugborough Relays [Top]

If you would like to run in the Shugborough Relays on Wednesday 22rd June then please email Rebecca Ibbs by the end of today (6 June).

It costs £3 each to enter.

As always we will then go to the Holly Bush pub afterwards for sausages, chips and beer and this usually costs £4 per person. Again everyone is invited but please let Rebecca know so she can confirm numbers with the pub.

And apologies for the very short notice - there was a slight technical hitch!

1 June: Seniors track session change [Top]

Please note that next Tuesday's (7th) Seniors track session, coached by Julia Matheson, will be moved to Thursday 9th. Start time will be the usual 6pm with the gates open at 5.45pm.

This is for 1 week only and normal service will resume the following week!

25 May: Michelle & Mel run for Staffs [Top]

Michelle Buckle & Mel Young represented Staffordshire in this year’s Inter Counties 10 miles at Llandudno 10 last Sunday.

The race was delayed by 20 minutes due to hazardous weather conditions but the ladies Staffs team came away with a bronze medal behind North Wales & missing a silver on count back with Cheshire.

Michelle was 1st F35 in 65.24 with Wendy Swift improving her PB by nearly 15 minutes(!) to finish 6th F40 in 75.33

Please click here to see the results.

24 May: James lower 1500m best [Top]

James Fradley consolidated his position at the top of the UK U13 1500m rankings by smashing his PB in the Milton Keynes British Milers Club PB Classic on Saturday.

Racing against older runners James was pulled round to a new best of 4.37.32.

Please click here to see the results.

16 May: Wedding Congratulations! [Top]

Congratulations to seniors coach Julia Myatt and her partner Ken Matheson following their wedding on Friday.

All at the club hope you had a wonderful day and we wish you a long and happy future togther.

16 May: Medals at County Champs [Top]

Newcastle's junior athletes were well to the fore in the Staffs Track and Field Champs at a wet and windy Northwood on Saturday.

Despite being ill in the days leading up to the event James Fradley recovered well to record a Championship Best Performance in the U13 1500 of 4.45.1 and finish 3rd in the 200m in 27.8.

Josh Scibetta also tool gold in the U17 400m in 53.7, with Nathan Chester 2nd in the U15 200m in 26.5.

The junior ladies also performed well with Sophie Goodfellow 1st in the U13 1500 in 5.54.6 and 70m Hurdles (15.0) and Hannah Jones 2nd in the U20 800m in 2.48.2.

Chloe Lindop achieved a double victory in the U13 100m and 200m, recording times of 13.6 and 28.5, both grade 1 performances.

Well done to all club members who took part.

Please click here to see the results.

12 May: Sophie 3rd in Killer Mile [Top]

12 year old Sophie Goodfellow placed an impressive third in the Killer Mile Under 18's race last week with a time of 10 mins 10 seconds.

By taking part in the event Sophie also managed to raise £262.70 for Team Gambia from Clough Hall School, who are raising money for a nursery building project in Gambia

11 May: Ray & Nicola 'Spring' to Victory [Top]

Ray Morris and Nicola Lomas were the winners in their respective categories (M45 & W35) in the Spring Treble Series which concluded last Thursday with the Kibblestone Clamber.

Ray finished 15th on the night in 33.56 with Nicola 64th in 43.36. Tony Ratcliffe also completed the 3 race series.

Please click here to see the results.

5 May: Jamie & Michelle medal in 10k [Top]

Clayton was awash with blue, white and red vests last night as Jamie Pringle finished 3rd in the Clayton 10k and also picked up a bronze Staffs County Champs in the process.

Michelle Buckle went one better by winning silver and also finishing 2nd in the ladies race.

Mike Griffiths and Matt Driver also helped Jamie to the men's team prize.

Mike Whitmore was first in the V70 category and becomes County Champion.

Please click here to see the results.

5 May: James wins again [Top]

James Fradley's star continued to rise at the Trafford AC Medal Meeting on Monday winning the U13 800m race in a new PB of 2:18.08 in very windy conditions. His time ranks him 3rd in the UK and also remains top ranked in the 1500m.

James also showed a good turn of speed by storming to a suprise victory in the 200m recording 27.43 to rank him 14th in the country, and approaches next weekend's Staffs County Champs full of confidence and hoping to threaten the 1500m record, weather conditions permitting.

2 May: Chloe wins in Wigan [Top]

Chloe Lindop competed in the Wigan Spring Open on 10th April, winning 2 our of the 3 events she entered. Chloe won the 100m and 200m in times of 14.3 and 29.6 respectively and finished 5th in the 800m in 2.46.7 to cap a busy afternoon.

Remember, please email the webmaster with any track and field results so we can put them on the website!

26 Apr: Marathon round up [Top]

Well done to all club members who took part in a very warm London marathon and mini-marathon the weekend before last, as well as the Madrid marathon.

In the London Marathon Graham Kemp was first back in 3.29.47 followed by Andrew Dasey, Belinda Riley, Lynne Frith and Nigel Symms, who all completed the course in under 4 hours 30 mins.

In the mini-marathon James Fradley performed well in the U13 Boys Regional Challenge to finish 46th, completing the 3 mile course in an excellent 18.00, a time that will have a number of seniors quaking in their racing flats!

Mel Young ran in the Madrid Marathon on the same day and finished a more than respectable 23rd lady, recording 3.20.55.

Please click here to see the results.

12 Apr: Knights Newcastle 7 Review [Top]

The Knights Newcastle 7 took place once again under warm spring sunshine, as Mark Neeld of Stone MM lead the field home in 39:28. In a close finish for the minor places Carl Moulton (Boalloy) held off Paul Gibbings (Trentham), recording 40:07 and 40:11 respectively. Mark Flint was first Newcastle runner back in 7th place, with Newcastle taking the team honours.

In the Ladies race Trentham followed on from a top 10 finish in Saturday's National Road Relays by dominating proceedings with Sharleen Hollinshead (Trentham) a clear winner in 43:07, Mandy Vernon (Trentham) 2nd in 44:17 and Ruth Watchorn-Rice (Cheadle) 3rd in 44:58, with Trenham the clear team victors. Ist Newcastle runner back was Wendy Swift in 52:16.

Please click here to download the full results.

What the Fun Run lacked in numbers was made up for in enthusiam with Emily Griffiths leading home the under 10s in the 1k run and Adam Jones the over 10s in the 2k run.

Many thanks to our sponsors for supporting the race and fun run:

Knights Solicitors, Bourne Sports, Steve James (Sports Therapist), BS Marson & Sons and try me now.

And a big thank you to all those who helped to organise the race and fun run and help out on the day.

11 Apr: Marathon PB for Paul [Top]

Paul Eardley recorded a huge PB in the Milan Marathon yesterday, recording 3.06.32 - some 20 minutes off his previous best if not mistaken.

Well done Paul!

8 Apr: Dougie Mac 5k [Top]

A number of club members were in action in last Sunday's Dougie Mac 5k road race in Barlaston.

Matt Driver was first backed for the club in 18.01 followed by Craig Taylor in 18.45. Nigel Lee, Nigel Symms and Charles Larsson also enjoyed a run out in the sun!

Apologies if anybody has been missed out - the results don't list the club name.

Please click here to see the results.

6 Apr: James tops 1500m rankings [Top]

James Fradley made a flying start to the track season by clocking a new PB of 4.41.5 in the U13 Boys 1500 at the Stoke AC Open on Sunday.

James now tops the UK rankings in this age group and will be looking to imrpove further during the season.

A number of James' team mates also got their season's under way with some encouraging performances.

Joshua Scibetta ran a new PB of 11.7 to finish 2nd in the 100 and finished 3rd in the 200 with 23.8 in the U17 age group.

Adam Jones was 2nd in the U15 Boys 100 and Chloe Lindop won the U13 Girls 100 and 200 in with new PBs of 14.3 and 29.7.

And to top off the good performances Laura Matthews was crowned Staffs AAA 5000m Champion (Junior Women).

To see the details of these and many other good performances please click here to see the results.

6 Apr: James makes West Mids team [Top]

U13 Boy James Fradley has been selected to represent the West Midlands in next Sunday's Virgin London Mini Marathon, held over the last 3 miles of the main marathon course.

James finished 3rd in the trial race at Stourport on 12th March to earn his selection. Well done James and good luck for the race - we'll all be looking out for you on the TV!

Please click here for the results of the trial.

5 Apr: Call to arms... [Top]

The club's annual Newcastle 7 road race takes place this Sunday, starting at 10.30am with a fun run at 10.35 in the club grounds and we need your help!

Volunteers are needed to help out with the following -

Before the race:
* we want to show our club house off at its best so we need to give it a good clean beforehand on Friday 8th from about 6pm
* we need to set out the course. We will be meeting at the club house at 2pm on Saturday 9th April to do this. This involves putting out mile markers, 'caution runners' signs and car parking signs around the course.

On race day (Sunday 10th April) we need volunteers to help to:
* marshal around the course (you would need to be at the club by 9.30am and would be finished by 12 noon at the latest)
* give out water at the water station and at the finish
* give out the prizes to the runners after the race at the club house
* to sell the refreshments at the club house

Any time you can spare, even if its just a few minutes after the race to help tidy up, will be greatly appreciated and help the continued success of this long running event.

Please contact Rebecca for further details.

5 Apr: Emergency/Medical details required[Top]

At the request of the Committee call all members please email Club Secretary Rebecca Ibbs with your emergency contact details and information about any background medical conditions the club need to be aware of.

4 Apr: Charlotte runs for Staffordshire [Top]

Charlotte Dale represented Staffordshire in the Intermediate Girls age group at the English Schools XC Champs on Saturday 19th March at Wollaton Park, Nottingham.

Despite being spiked at the start Charlotte persevered and finished 306th in a time of 16.04 for the 4800m course, and was 5th counter for the Staffordshire team.

1 Apr: As you were... [Top]

Due to the recent increase in costs coupled with the reduction in funding available to support races, UK Athletics has been meeting to discuss how to ease the burden on race organisers over the coming months.

It has been decided that for the coming 2011 road race season, starting today and lasting through to September 30th, results from last year's races will apply.

UK Athletics Race Organising Committee representative Mr Ide Ott declared, 'By re-using last year's results race organisers will not have to pay for finish marshalls or chip timing equipment and the like. It is also of benefit to the environment as paper copies of the results will not have to be generated - it is a win-win situation.

We obviously encourage existing races to continue and urge runners to support the proposal by finishing in the same positions and times as last year. New races will be able to produce results but these can be generated by the cheapest possible means - why not generate them before the race, for example?'

You couldn't make it up...

1 Apr: Wendy Swift-er than ever [Top]

Just weeks after receiving the Andy Webster trophy for most improved runner at the club, Wendy Swift further improved her half marathon time to 1.36.23 at the Liverpool Half last Sunday, knocking close to 4 minutes off her previous best.

Excellent run.

Please click here to see the results.

28 Mar: Ladies denied victory [Top]

Newcastle ladies were denied victory on a technicality in Sunday's English Half Marathon champs held in conjuction with the Wilmslow Half Marathon, with one of the team not wearing a club vest.

Catherine Dulla lead the team home for a fine 6th overall in 1.23.03, with Michelle Buckle 10th in 1.25.26. Lsast but not least, Mel Young recorded yet another half PB to duck under the 90 minute mark with 1.29.54 for 28th overall, showing her marathon training is paying dividends.

Well done to all - we know you were the real winners!

Please click here to see the results.

19 Mar: Stafford Half [Top]

Craig Taylor continued his good form by finishing first club member back in today's Stafford Half marathon. Craig finished 53rd in 1.24.45 with Graham Kemp improving a massive 5 minutes on last year's time to finish in 1.33.00. Stephen Askey (1.28.25) and Mark Flint (1.25.05) also beat the 90 minute barrier.

Michelle Buckle finished 4th lady overall in 1.25.02 and will look forward to a good performance in next week's Wilmslow Half.

Please click here to see the results.

17 Mar: Michelle's 5k best [Top]

Congratulations to Michelle Buckle who broke the 5k record for the F35-39 age group last night in the Derby Midweek 5k series.

Michelle ran 18.32 to break the previous record by 2 seconds and was 4th lady in a race won by World 1500m silver medalist Lisa Dobriskey, setting her up nicely for the road season.

Wow, a whole report about Michelle without once referring to her age....

Please click here to see the result.

16 Mar: BVAF XC Champs [Top]

She may be a bit long in the tooth(!) but Michelle Buckle showed she can still run well with a good performance in the BVAF XC Champs last Saturday.

Michelle finished 9th in her category (17th overall) despite ongoing niggles and recent illness.

Please click here to see the results.

14 Mar: Stafford 20 [Top]

There was a good turn out of members in Sunday's Stafford 20, with the road season now well and truly underway - thankfully the weather wasn't as wintry as previous years!

Craig Taylor was first member back in 44th with 2.18.53 with the ever reliable Graham Kemp next back in 2.29.25 for 84th place. For the ladies Belinda Riley (220) and Lynne Frith (246) continued their preperations for London recording 3.06.09 and 3.16.10 respectively.

Please click here to see the results.

14 Mar: PB for Paul [Top]

Another year, another PB! Paul Eardley further improved his half marathon time to 1.25.15 at the Wrexham Half on 27th February. Paul, as with many others, is clearly benefitting from the guidance and structure being provided by Julia Myatt!

Please click here to see the results.

14 Mar: Knype Pool 5 [Top]

A number of members competed in the Knypersley Pool 5 mile charity off road race on 27th February.

Thanks to Nicola Lomas for the following report & recommendation!:

"We all stood huddled under any cover we could find prior to the race as the rain came down by the bucket load. Fortunately, just as we were called to the starting line, the rain stopped and the sun came out (apart from a brief hail shower about 10 minutes in). The course was on the whole dry, with just the top fields trying to suck your trainers off! A lovely low key race for those new to trail running, and great preparation for the Spring Treble in April."

Please click here to see the results.

8 Mar: Weekend round up [Top]

Well done to James Fradley and Sophie Goodfellow for being picked to run for Staffordshire in Saturday's Intercounties XC Champs at Cofton Park.

James was top scorer for Staffordshire finishing an encouraging 30th in the U13 Boys and mixing it with some of the UKs finest young athletes.

Sophie Goodfellow also ran well to finish 212th in the U13 Girls and just miss out as a counter for the Staffordshire team.

Closer to home a number of club members took part in the Cheadle 5 on Sunday. Ian Sparks was first club member back in 13th with the improving Wendy Swift first back for the ladies in 72nd.

Also on Sunday Nicola Lomas finished 282nd (1.24.57) in the Cloud 9 Hill Race with Nigel Lee in 388th.

Please click here to see the results.

3 Mar: Staffs Half club social [Top]

To help with the post-race recovery Gail Lowe has booked 20 places at the Wulston for a social meal at 5pm following Stafford Half. Everyone is welcome but please let Gail know by the 10th March if you can make it so she can confirm numbers.

The Wulston have a 2 for 1 offer which usually equates to £4 -6 per main course and a menu should be available this week.

28 Feb: Knights Newcastle 7 launch run[Top]

The Knights Newcastle 7 Breakfast Run launch is at Bourne Sports on Saturday 12th March. There is a draw for 2 free places and £2 off the entry price.

Please click here to go to the Knights Newcastle 7 race page.

22 Feb: National XC - thank you [Top]

A thank you message from Matt Lockyer:

Just wanted to say a massive congrats to all the NSAC runners who turned out and got round the mudbath on saturday. Unfortunately as it was so muddy I did my warm-up round the car parks and didnt get to watch the kids and womens races. But I have to say the mens race reminded me why I still run for NSAC.

Our senior men finished 21st out of 95 completed teams. We were 1st Staffordshire team, better than Staffs Moorlands and City of Stoke. We were only two places behind the mighty Belgrave and we were three places AHEAD of Sale Harriers!!! Looking at the teams above us, there is not a single one that is smaller than us, or has an ash track!! The key was our strength in depth, there was 15 places between our 2nd and 4th counter and our 6th counter was higher up the field than the 6th counter of all but 17 teams.

Lets build on our success as the premier cross country team in Staffordshire and aim for even higher next season, even if the race isnt in our backyard. The nationals is the pinnacle of the cross country season, so lets have all those guys and girls who compete in the North Staffs League on the start line next year.

All the best and thank you a million times to the NSAC supporters who were out on the course.

21 Feb: National XC report [Top]

A sea of mud awaited the runners for Saturday's National XC Champs held at Alton Towers making an already challenging course even tougher.

The club was represented in a number the age groups with some good individual performances but few full teams.

The U13s Girls team was the only junior team to finish, managing 37th with Dilys Grocott first back for the club in 207th and helped by Sophie Goodfellow (220), Chloe Lindop (340) and Laura Whitehurst (362).

After his top 10 finish in the Midlands, James Fradley found the going a little tougher in finishing 62nd but still has a year to run in the age group.

Paul Fradley (243) and Jonathon Whitehurst (325) were the club's only finishers in the U15 Boys, the same for Charlotte Dale in the U15 Girls who finished 244th.

Hannah Jones managed 208th in the U17 Girls with Amy Whitehurst 111th in the Junior Womens race.

Michelle Buckle, despite carrying a number of niggles, did well to finish 95th in the Senior Womens and lead the team to 52nd place.

The Senior Men's team put in the team performance of the day by finishing 21st out of 95 teams with Matt Lockyer contining his good form to finish in 136th place

Please click here to see the results.

16 Feb: Birmingham League report [Top]

The Senior Men's team put in another solid performance in the 4th and final fixture of the Birmingham XC League, finishing a comfortable 8th overall and securing their spot in Division 2 for next season.

Danny Egan and the evergreen Mark Flint lead the team home in 22nd and 23rd place, with Steve Ratcliffe 31st, Ian Sparks 45th, Tim Twentyman 60th and Matt Driver (84th) helping the team to 6th on the day.

Good running also from Martin Bailey (102), Neil Gerrity (209) and Nigel Symms (214) providing much needed backup and ensuring the club avoided the fate of neighbours Trenthem be failing to complete a team.

Sole representative in the Midland Ladies league was Mey Young finishing 67th.

Well done and thank you to all who took part during the season.

Please click here to see the results.

1 Feb: Midland XC [Top]

A fantsatic performance at Leamington on Saturday from James Fradley saw him step up a level at the Midland XC Champs with 7th place in the U13 Boys.

The U13 Girls team were lead home by Sophie Goodfellow and gained good experience in finishing 14th team.

In the U15 Girls Charlotte Dale finished 105th, with Paul Fradley and Jon Whitehurst finishing 73rd & 100th in the U15 Boys.

A great turnout of Senior Ladies were lead home by Michelle Buckle in 33rd, with the team 16th overall.

More solid packing from the Senior Men saw them finish 7th with Matt Lockear continuing his good from for 38th. Steve Ratcliffe showed he's getting back into racing shape finishing narrowly behind Mark Flint in 777th & 78th respectively.

Please click here to see the results.

25 Jan: Helbsy Half [Top]

The club was well represented in Sunday's Helbsy Half marathon, with Mel Young smashing her PB in 1.30.54 to finish 26th lady overall. Michelle Buckle finished 3rd F35 in 1.24.51.

It was a day for PBs, with Stephen Askey finishing in 1.30.30, Wendy Swift running well for 1.40.00 and Nigel Simms recording 1.49.32.

Well done also to Rachel Tweedie, Belinda Riley and Helen Hall.

Please click here to see the results.

17 Jan: National XC Champs - can you help? [Top]

Volunteers are being sort to help out at the National XC Championships at Alton Towers on Saturday 19th Feb, organised by Staffs Moorlands AC.

If you are interested please contact Glenn Marriott, including Rebecca on the email (robert.rebecca292@virgin.net).

17 Jan: Birmingham League report [Top]

After the highs of last week at the County Champs it was back to the day job in the 3rd Birmingham League fixture at Wolverhampton on Saturday.

A solid team performance saw the team finish 6th on the day and sit in 8th position overall with one fixture to go.

Providing a full compliment of counters finish in the last fixture at Bourneville on 12th February Newcastle have all but retained their place in Division 2 next year - a good performance.

Danny Egan was first back, just sneaking into the top 20, with evergreen Mark Flint (29) and Tim Twentyman (33) also running well.

Please click here to see the results.

If you can spare an afternoon on the 12th February why not run in the last fixture and help the team?

9 Jan: County call ups [Top]

The following have been selected to represent Staffordshire in the Regional Finals of Sportshall Athletics:

Well done to all - a good reward for all the hard work over the winter!

9 Jan: County Champs round up [Top]

Newcastle runners performed well in Saturday's County Champs at Stafford Common, with a good turn out in the senior events.

James Fradley carried over his good form into the New Year with a fantastic win in the U13s Boys, leading the team to 6th.

Sophie Goodfellow was Newcastle's leading runner in the U13 Girls, finishing 7th and with a chance of making the county team. The team picked up a medal by finishing 3rd with Dilys Grocott and Chloe Lindop completing the count.

Paul Fradley and Charlotte Dale were unfortunately the only members to compete in the U15 Boys & Girls, finishing 13th and 16th respectively.

10 Senior Ladies toed the start line with new-Vet Michelle finishing 13th. The Vets ladies team of Michelle, Charlie Weller and Fiona Ridley were 2nd team, with the seniors 6th overall. Lorna Bradshaw, back from Australia for a visit with husband Phil, made a suprise appearance and finished a respectable 40th.

Last but by no means least, the Senior Men put out a very strong team and were rewarded for their efforts with 2nd team.

Matt Lockyer had a storming run to finish 4th, with good performances from Phil Bradshaw (7), Jamie Pringle (11), Danny Egan (22), Steve Ratcliffe (23) and Mark Flint (28), with good packing from the non-counters.

Please click here to see the results

9 Jan: Chesire Santa Dash [Top]

Slightly late news but well done to 13yr old Dilys Grocott for winning the 2.5k Cheshire Santa Dash (1st lady home).