Happy Birthday Brenda

Thursday 8th December saw Brenda Chapman, (one of Dudley Ladies finest) celebrate her 50th birthday in style by laying on a super champagne buffet for everyone after training.

Everyone who could make it was there and Brenda was swamped with presents, cards and good wishes (The highlight of which being a stuffed dog supplied by Pat and Louise that impersonated Elvis Presley singing "I'm Nothing But a Hound Dog, which was sheer class)

This was followed on Saturday 10th December by a huge party at Netherton Liberal Club where over 200 guests turned up to see Brenda lay on another massive spread and fulfill a live long dream of performing a duet with Elvis Presley. OK he may not have been the real thing but he came pretty close and went on to perform some of his greatest hits for the next hour and a half. Comments ranged from "Brilliant" to "Hilarious" to "What has he got down the front of his trousers" and "It must be a salami"

Brenda sends her thanks to everyone that made the evening such a memorable success for her.

For further photo's of the night, click on the icon on the right

Christmas Comes Early For Dudley Ladies

Sunday 4th December again saw hordes of Dudley Ladies descend upon Newtown in Powys in order to participate in the largest Santa Run in Europe with well in excess of 3000 Santa's taking part.

A number of the ladies were interviewed by the television, radio and newspaper media with the Sarah Jones family group making a special effort by modifying their costumes to look like cowboys to such an extent that partner Bryan won the best dressed male Santa competition.

Pam Edmunds again led the way on the celebrations front with her mulled wine freely flowing for anyone that wanted something to help the free chip butties that were given away at the end go down as shown by Marie Sandells above.

Everybody thoroughly enjoyed the day and had a real good time and it was good to see Liz Woods again who made a special effort in flying all the way back from her new home in Spain just to take part.

For photographs of the day click on the image on the right

Dudley Ladies Commit Suicide

Sunday 20th November saw some of Dudley's finest take on the hills, mud, ice, freezing water and everything else that Baggeridge Country Park could throw at them in this years Suicide Six.

This is a race not for the faint hearted, with the "highlights" being a waist deep river crossing in ice breaking freezing cold conditions followed by a 108 step Jacobs Ladder climb back to the finish. All of which follow a few hill climbs to get you warmed up and a large expanse of mud to slow you down.

None the less, everyone had great fun with newcomers, Maggie Rowan and Marie Sandells path finding the way for Anita Zammit. Jenny Fraser, Jo Ashley and Brenda Hunt, who all finished, wet and muddy but very happy.

For pictures of the day click on the icon on the right

Tracey Goes All The Way

Tuesday 1st November saw Tracey Bennett go all the way when she got herself involved with Sheena and Pammy's group and ran her first 5 miler.

As her mentors said afterwards, "it's amazing what you can do with after a little cajoling, we convinced her that she COULD do it and boy was she glad when she completed it."

Sometimes it just takes a little extra...... "go on you can do it ".... type of encouragement to push that extra mile and after a celebratory glass of red wine with the rest of the group, Tracey went home a very proud girl indeed.

Liz is doing a Shirley Valentine

Thursday 27th October saw us say goodbye to Liz Woods who is emigrating to Spain in order to run a company that lets out villas and apartments just south of Benidorm.

Liz started as a beginner a couple of years ago and together with her twin sister Louise, she has been an absolute inspiration and driving force behind motivating dozens of other ladies to follow in her footsteps.

It will be no exaggeration to say that her beaming smile and outgoing personality will be missed by everyone, not least the bar staff over the road at the Mount Pleasant Pub.

The girls are planning a club trip over to Spain to visit Liz sometime next year, when she's settled in and got everything organised, so sort out your Dudley Ladies bikini and start saving your money now.

Jan & Eleanor Take The Plunge

Sunday 23rd October saw Jan Stanton and Eleanor Phillips take part in their first race since graduating from the Dudley Ladies school of beginners.

They ran in the Cancer Research Weston Park event, where runners did a demanding single 10km lap around the famous Capability Brown parkland with its beautiful panoramic views across the Midlands towards the Wrekin.

The course was a mixture of multi-terrain that included road, grassland and forest tracks, which stretched even the most able of the 1500 plus runners that took part.

Jan and Eleanor epitomise everything that Dudley Ladies is about and we have nothing but pride and admiration for them. Well Done to both!!

Click on Jan and Eleanor's photo for more pictures of the day

Congratulations are due to Tracey Green, Sue Hickman, Donna Concannon and Michelle Woodyatt who all travelled over to Holland during the weekend of October 16th for the Amsterdam Marathon and Half Marathon.

All reported back in good spirits and spoke very highly of the trip organizers, the race and the whole experience. Put it in your diary for next year.

Congratulations To Everyone That Did The Great North Run on Sunday 18th September

Photograph shows Jo Ashley, Anita Zammit, Brenda Hunt and Jenny Fraser proudly showing off their medals and tee-shirts at the end of a very hot and demanding run but a BRILLIANT weekend.

Star of the day was undoubtedly Jo who finished in 2 hours 07minutes but special mentions must also be given to Amber Martin, Sue Freeman, Sarah Oakley, Julie Foley and Enid Brazier who all acquitted themselves and Dudley Ladies proud.

It must have been the Pasta!!!!

A Personal Account of the Lake Vyrnwy Half Marathon by Sheena Di Franco, Sunday  11^th September

 "I arose from my bed at 7.30am feeling a little nervous, but hungry.  Made my way to the kitchen had my porridge, orange juice and banana.  Packed my bag and I was off to pick up Gail. No problem directions in my head from Pammy (who couldn’t make the day) to Gail’s house, she said “Just go past the Black Country Museum in Dudley and I said, “Its ok I remember the rest, I’ll be ok” (famous last words). 

The Black Country museum road was blocked off, so I was diverted to Burn Tree Island and back along the Birmingham New Road.  Conscious of the time my foot inadvertently was pressed against the accelerator pedal, perhaps a little heavy, which consequently meant I was driving over 50mph.  I then viewed in my mirror, YES a police car; I had to think quickly, I was in the outside lane, what ever happens I can’t put my foot on the brake pedal as he would know I was speeding, so I put my indicator on and moved gradually and carefully over to the left, so that HE could then do 50mph and over take me!! 

At the traffic lights I turned right to get back on track to Gail’s house.  Then turned first right again in to the cul de sac OH….  This isn’t where Gail lives.  I’m lost.  I got out my mobile 8.45am and rang Pam (Never thought to have Gail’s mobile number did I).  A very sleepy voice at the end of the phone said hello. “Pam it’s me I’m lost, were does Gail live?”  She gave me instructions, with the help from Keith (well I think it was Keith… only joking) and I arrived at Gail’s for 9am.  Then we were off to collect Raj.  I said to Gail “You do know were she lives?”  She replied “Yeh I think so”.  Neither of us had Raj’s mobile, so I then had to ring my husband to get her number for us. We rang Raj and arrived at her house promptly.   

My next little venture was to Lake Vyrnwy itself. 

Raj said it was quicker to get on the M6 then M54 to Shrewsbury, there was only one problem I don’t drive on motorways.  Although I must say I’m ok on the M54 that’s like a dual carriage way.  So my next BIG challenge before I’d even done the 13 miles around a lake was to get on and off the M6 in one piece.  They must have confidence in me and my driving, although they’d not been passengers in my car before and don’t know my secret!!!! 

The M6, was no problem, on at one junction off at the next, only 5 mins that was easy.  We were then on the M54 what a breeze.  An hour or so later there was the sign, welcoming us to WALES.  Weaving our way around the winding roads, then this little voice said “Sheena it’s all straight road now to Lake Vyrnwy, Oh turn right here now!!!”  Thanks Gail plenty of warning. 

After travelling two hours we finally arrive at our destination.  The weather was ideal.  Not to hot and plenty of intermittent cloud coming from the west (Michael Fish taught me that one).  We made our way to the ladies, adjusted our lipstick (well you never know who you might bump into do you?) then went for refreshments.  Teas all round.  I ate three quarters of a malt loaf and had an energy drink, Gail made her way through a sandwich and blueberry muffin, whilst Raj just had the tea. 

I’m so glad I put on my lipstick because we bumped into Ronny, Kerry, Lynn and Alison and I was doubly pleased that they saw me at my best before the 13 miles. We made our way to the start ALL very nervous, but eager to start the race.  

Then we were off.  We started off quite slow Kerry, Raj and Lynn had gone and we could see them in the distance.  As Gail and I approached the dam wall I said to Gail “Flippin heck I can’t see the end of the lake from here” What a challenge we had undertaken, we were really glad we had done the training.  We arrive at the 6 mile marker quite comfortably 1hour and 5 mins. That was our first personal best.    We ran 10 miles in 1hour 47 mins and we were feeling really good.  Then at 11.5 miles I think the term is, we hit the wall (Thankfully not the dam wall, well actually it was a dam wall, if you get my drift, ho ho) 12 miles felt like four, but as we approached the finish line our emotions began to kick in. Adrenaline took over, a few tears were shed.  

 FINISHED by my watch our time was 2 hours 21 mins and 57 seconds.  For Gail this was her first half marathon.  She was fantastic, a great partner to run with, full of grit and determination, brilliant.  For me the last half marathon I ran was the Great North 2001, I was 4 years younger and my time then was 2 hours and 42 mins.  I have beaten my time by 20 minutes.   

I am now going to get sentimental and speak from the heart.  What does Dudley Ladies Running club mean to me?  I joined this club in October 2004.  As a few people know I’d planned to run the marathon this April 2005, but unfortunately I gained a few injuries and I had to withdraw.  This was an awful time for me, not just because of been unable to run the marathon, but I had personal things going on around me to.  I had a full time job; I’m running a house and looking after a family etc.  We women juggle so many different tasks in our lives and running is to me is my sanity.  I run Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.  I see familiar faces, make new friends, try and encourage friends as they do me.  This club is a great family event and I know without it I would be over 1 stone heavier, my body mass index would be a worry to Phil!! and I wouldn’t have just gained all those lasting memories I experienced on Sunday.  WHAT A DAY!!!"

Sheena, Gail and Raj were joined at the Lake Vyrnwy Half Marathon by other intrepid Dudley Ladies who all reported having a good time.. First home was Mary Norgrove who finished in 2hr 04, followed by Marie Sandells and Maggie Rowan shown here posing at the finish with their medals.

Other people to mention include Kerri Pearson, Lynne Rushton 2hr 22, Julie Foley and Sarah Oakley, 65 year old Enid Brazier 2hr 43 and Alison Camwell, Gill Criddle, Ronnie Smith and Siva.

For the full results go to the Oswestry Olympians website via the Links page

What a Knees Up

Friday 2nd September saw Nick and Julie Walton culminate 25 years of blood, sweat, toil and tears when they celebrated their silver wedding anniversary at Wombourne Club in front of over 100 disbelieving admirers.

Guests were entertained to live music by some of Nicks "Delta Blue Band" friends who brought the house down with their rendition of "Dueling Banjos" from the film Deliverance and Julie got everyone on their feet in order to be first at the Buffet table which was stocked with everything a self indulgent could wish for.

It was a great night and as Nick said, "Same time, same place in another 25 years time then."

It's a Girl

Claire Powell, one of Dudley Ladies founder members gave birth to daughter Phoebe on Monday 22nd August.

Both mother and daughter are doing well and looking forward to getting back to running. Congratulations Claire, we're all really pleased for you.

Sunday 4th December will again see hordes of Dudley Ladies descend upon Newtown in Powis to take part in their now world breaking Santa Run.

This is where over 3000 other die-hards all dress up in various variations of Santa suits and attempt to run approximately 4 miles without succumbing to the temptations of visiting every pub on the route. Needless to say, as the picture on the left shows, our lot fail badly.

If you're interested in coming on the coach then please put your name down early to avoid disappointment

Breaking News

It just goes to show that some people get all the breaks don't they!!

Last week saw Jan Cook involved in a bit of a bump in her car whilst on the way to Ikea. She was going around the big traffic island just off the motorway when the car skidded on the wet and slippery tarmac before coming to a bit of a sudden and unplanned stop. Although in some considerable pain from her wrist, Jan gallantly soldiered on to do the shopping and spend all the money that husband John had given her before being forced to go to hospital and have her broken wrist put in plaster. What a woman!

The second person to break something this week was our hunky helper Dave Bell who also broke his wrist. Dave who is a mechanic claims it it was done at work whilst tightening his nuts but we think that's just a metaphor for saying it was the result of some very dubious personal habits.

We don't mind you having a short break guys just as long as you don't get too plastered. So come back soon you're sorely missed.

Charlie is Honoured

Four year old Charlie Taylor was presented with a medal, certificate and club cap on Tuesday 26th June by club founder Rita Vanes as a reward for covering nearly 5miles on his bike with the aid of a bit of pushing from mum Emma.

Charlie conducted himself impeccably throughout and this was a just reward for all his efforts................Well Done Charlie!!!

They sure start em young at Dudley Ladies.

News From Kath Smith - Our Australian Missionary

Hello to you all, We are all starting to feel a bit more settled now. Dave managed to get a job after two weeks of being here, he's working for the Adelaide government and really likes it.

The kids were very unsettled for a while but seem to be better now. Connie goes to kindergarten and has some nice friends. They've been invited to a few parties which makes all the difference to them. They all go to swimming lessons and are doing really well. I've met a few other moms and it's nice to get together for a chat! We are renting a house by the beach, it's great. The kids can't get enough of it, we even go paddling in the evening, When Dave gets home from work! We are all looking forward to summer when we can have barbies and sit out in the evenings with a cold beer!

I'm ashamed to say, I haven't been running much. I can't seem to find a club and I really miss it. I wear my Dudley Ladies sweatshirt a lot though and it reminds me of the good fun I had. I miss being part of the club. The website is brilliant, you've done a good job with that. Nick told me that you've got a lot of new members, I hope they all enjoy it as much as I did.

Anyway say hello to everyone for me. Has Tosh moved yet? remember me to her, also say hi to Dave and Gloria. Please tell Mary I'll be in touch soon. I hope your family are ok, I bet your grandchildren are growing fast. Look after yourselves, keep in touch, I really miss you all, Kath xx

Dudley Ladies Make Headline News

On Saturday the 16th July Dudley Ladies were again making the headlines when we were featured in an Express & Star newspaper centre spread under the headline "Runners scoop awards in race to be the fastest"

The article featured prominent photographs of Sherl Allman, Kelly Faulkner and Alison Willis, shown right, together with Maggie Quebdani, Nikki Guest, Liz Woods and Rita.

The article was a report on our recent very successful awards bash at the Park Hall Hotel in Wolverhampton, when around 170 people turned out to receive various medals, certificates, trophies and tee-shirts etc. and went on to list a number of the prize winners as well attributing a number of things to Rita that for the life of her, she can't remember saying? .......(I blame the drink..phil)

Following the article we have again been inundated with new recruits all wanting to learn to run and join in what is already becoming something of a phenomena. So remember to use the school car parks as things are getting bigger.

Sue Mountford Has Had A Little Girl Called Amy

As one member leaves, a new one arrives. Sue brought Amy in to the world in the first week of July and both mother and daughter are doing fine. Congratulations Sue everyone passes on their best wishes and are really pleased for you. Come back as soon as you can.

Tosh Is Going To Hull And Back

As Dudley Ladies membership spreads ever wider, this month sees us saying goodbye to one of our closest and dearest friends when Tosh Perry moves on to start a new job and new life in Hull.

Tosh joined the club in early 2004 as an absolute beginner. She admitted to being a little over weight and was determined to do something about it and boy has she done something or what.

Tosh, who lost nearly 3 stone in weight during the past 12 months now regularly runs over 5 miles at least twice a week and recently won one of the much coveted outstanding achievement awards at Dudley Ladies recent presentation evening.

Tosh is an inspiration to all others around her, always ready with a smile, a kind word, a dirty joke and encouragement to others just starting out. There can be no better advert for Dudley Ladies than Tosh Perry.

Rita & Mary Lavender presented Tosh, with a card signed by everybody in the club, a bottle of champagne, an engraved crystal champagne glass and a framed photograph of everyone waving goodbye.

Tosh will now spearhead our drive for new members in the north east and says that she is delighted with the new missionary position that she has been offered. As the photograph of her and Nick Walton on the right appears to show.

There will never be another Tosh and she will be sadly missed by everyone in the club and amidst all the laughter on the night, there were a few genuine tears as well as we wished her all the best for the future.

Keep in touch Tosh and come back and visit us when you can

Male Helpers Rewarded For Services To Dudley Ladies

Two of DL's most trusted and valuable male members where recognized and rewarded this week with engraved cut glass crystal brandy glasses for all the pleasure and service that they have given Dudley Ladies over the last year.

In addition to Nick Walton and George Kosteczko who were honored at the Presentation Evening, this week it was the turn of John Murphy and Dave Bell, without whom, we wouldn't be locked up by George, guarded by Nick, have our legs rubbed by John or be tickled silly by Dave's jokes.

We love you really guys. So a big thank you goes out to all of them.

Condolences

Brenda Chapman's Father died on the 30th June

This follows on from her mother dying very unexpectedly last October and as you can imagine, Brenda is absolutely devasted by the loss of both her parents in such a short space of time.

Brenda, is the very epitome of everything that Dudley Ladies stands for. She is one of the friendliest, happiest, most helpful and popular ladies in the club and she was very close to both her mother and her father,

We're sure that everyone will join us in offering their condolences, best wishes and giving her every bit of support that we can during what is obviously going to be a very difficult time.

She's helped you in the past, now it's your turn to help her. Don't let her try and get through this on her own.

Alison Is Most Improved Runner Of The Year

Alison Camwell was crowned Most Improved Runner of The Year 2004-5 by Phil & Rita in a belated presentation ceremony on the 28th June due to Alison being unable to attend the recent awards evening as she was up to her neck in mud at the Glastonbury Festival.

Alison won the award because of her incredible rise through the ranks despite having to fight all the way to overcome her Hay Fever induced asthma.

She lost weight, changed her body shape and recently completed the Blackpool Half Marathon in unbearably blisteringly hot conditions when the temperature was up in the 90's.

So well done Alison, you've worked hard for it and it is richly deserved.

Other belated awards : were presented to Pat Hackett, Mary Lavender and Debbie Stokes for being the first three Dudley Lady finishers at the Liverpool Women's 10k.

Anita Zammit, Brena Hunt, Jenny Fraser, Amber Martin and Sue Freeman were presented with trophies for successfully completing the Edinburgh Marathon.

Ten year old Katie-May Garratt was honored for being the youngest member to complete the recent beginners course

Gwyneth is going for a Chinese

As Dudley Ladies membership spreads worldwide, this month sees us saying goodbye to yet another of our missionaries when Gwyneth Chubb takes time out to teach in China.

Gwyneth left on the 24th April bound for Dongguan which is about 3 hours by ferry up the Pearl River and about 100 miles east of Guanzhow (Canton, as was) and intends to return to the club in the summer of 2006.

Gwyneth will now spearhead our drive for new members in the Chinese sector of the Asian continent but she will be sadly missed and we wish her and her family all the best for the future.

Enjoy the experience Gwyneth, keep in touch and let us know how you're getting on.

Good Luck and Bon Voyage Kath

As Dudley Ladies membership spreads worldwide, this month sees us saying goodbye to one of our dearest friends when Kath Smith and her family emigrate to Australia on the 1st April to start a new life.

Kath joined the club in early 2004 and as been an inspiration to all others around her, always ready with a smile, a kind word and encouragement to others just starting out.

Phil & Rita presented Kath, with a card signed by everybody in the club, a bottle of champagne, a bouquet of flowers, a new club sweatshirt and a framed photograph of everyone waving goodbye.

Kath will now spearhead our drive for new members in the southern hemisphere but she will be sadly missed and we wish her and her family all the best for the future.

Keep in touch Kath and come back and visit us when you can.

Dudley Ladies Welcomes It's First American Member

A little while ago Dudley Ladies received the following email from a lady called Joan Malicote, pictured left with her two sons.

Joan, who lives in Indiana USA saw our website on the world wide web and wrote :-

" Hello, my name is Joan Malicote and I'm from Indiana. I happened to come across your web site this morning and just had to e-mail you. I wanted you to know that I think it is inspiring to see what you have done. I myself just started running 2 years ago to help me thru the menopause. Life saver! I only wish I lived there so as to be a part of something as special as you have created. I loved the calendar girls-it shows that everyone in all shapes and sizes are healthy and comfortable with their own bodies! That itself is wonderful. Well just wanted to let you know you've inspired me even more to continue to enjoy my running for life! I'll keep peeking in at your web site. I love it. Keep on Running, Joan"

We were so taken aback and impressed with Joan's contact from the other side of the globe that we promptly contacted her and made her Dudley Ladies first American member and our first foothold in the USA.

We have sent Joan a goody-bag of club tee-shirt and baseball cap etc and look forward to receiving photographs of her wearing them at local races around Camby, Indiana in the USA where she lives and receiving regular updates of her progress in the future.

Dudley Lady Jumps Off Tall Building

On Saturday 25th June our very own Sarah Derbyshire actually went through with her threat of jumping off one of the tallest buildings in Birmingham.

Fortunately, she had a rope tied around her waist and managed to raise £490 in pledges for Children With Cancer from people trying to talk her out of it.

So if you pledged any money to Sarah please bring it with you the next time you're down the club and she will show you her certificate and the photograph of her terrified face to prove that she did it.

Because of the number of members we now have, people have been complaining that they can't all get in to the room or hear what Rita has said.

So we have given her a portable PA System that has enough decibels to ensure that she's heard the other side of Shropshire. So no excuses from now on.

Take your earplugs, you have been warned!!!

Every member of the club, be they Beginner or Established is entitled to a free car windscreen sticker.

So next time you're down the club, pick yours up and display it in your car with pride.

Let's let  everybody know that you're a proper runner.

Phew What A Scorcher!!!!! A personal story of how NOT to run a Half Marathon

Our race correspondent Alison Camwell gives a personal insight into the trials and tribulations of running Blackpool's Marathon and Half Marathon on the hottest day in the year when temperatures soared to around the 90 Degree mark.

She writes :-

Picture the scene...... hottest day of the year, sun, sea and sand in our sights.... but instead of planning a relaxing day on the beach, a donkey ride and an ice cold beer, Sandra, Jayne and I had come to Blackpool to run a Half Marathon, while Sue Hickman and Donna Concannon had opted for the full monty. We'd done the training, with long runs up to 12 miles over the last few Sundays, while Donna and Sue had been regularly running over 20 miles for weeks, so we were all hoping for a PB on the fast, flat course.

Over 1,300 runners had registered for the full Marathon and almost 2,500 for the Half Marathon. Both courses start at the Hilton Hotel on the North Shore, go down the Promenade, past Blackpool Tower and the Pleasure Beach to the South Shore. Then the Half Marathon loops back up on itself to the start line whilst the Marathon carries on down to Lytham St Anne's before looping back up to rejoin the Half Marathon course again. Once you get back to the start line the course then drops down onto the Boardwalks and carries on up to Bispham before looping back down to the finish line at the Hilton Hotel.

Unfortunately the race was delayed for 45 minutes so we didn't get the starter's gun until 9.45am. However there was plenty of crowd support for the first half as we ran along the closed-to-traffic road that runs parallel to the sea front. Sandra and Jayne were a couple of minutes ahead of me by the time we got to the first water station, just after the 3 mile marker, only to find it had run out of water and runners were having to pick up the discarded half-empty water bottles out of the road left by the earlier runners. One of the local residents had his water pipe out to spray all the runners and one local lady was good enough to go and refill runners water bottles from her tap. By the time the slower runners (which included me!) looped back round and up past the first water station again, emergency supplies of cups and water had arrived.

By now I was beginning to psyche myself out - I'd only done 4 miles, it was hot, humid and there was no air to breathe, Blackpool Tower wasn't getting any closer and it was another mile past there just to get back to the start line, I had never felt so uncomfortable or sweated so much in my life. The thought that once I got back to the start line at the Hilton I had another 6 miles to do was too much to contemplate and I made a decision to stop and pull out of the race once I got back to the start line. But then Fate intervened. Further up the Promenade I got chatting to Tricia (who runs the Women's Running Network in the Blackpool area) and we discovered we were both planning on pulling out of the race. But as we approached the 7 mile mark and the Hilton Hotel we made a pact that we would get each other round the course even if we had to walk it. Another lady called Karen, who I'd spoken to earlier on in the race caught us up, and we all stuck together for the last 6 miles. A round of applause went out from our little group to the lead marathon runner as he overtook us at 2hrs 6 mins, just after our 9 mile marker and his 22 mile marker!

In the end I ran 4 miles, walked/jogged 3 miles and walked 6 miles, and I completed the course just under 3 hours. I was disappointed with the time (I had hoped to run as near to 2hrs 30m as possible) but on the upside, I finished the course, I got the medal (& a nice medal it is too!), I wasn't last and I'd be on a much bigger downer if I had stuck to my original decision and pulled out of the race.

I just don't how Sandra, Jayne, Donna and Sue managed to keep running and I take my hat off to them.

Sandra ran 2 hours 23 mins and Jayne finished in 2 hours 30 mins, whilst Donna and Sue pictured left exceeded all expectations on the day when they ran the full marathon in the blistering heat and with very little water in an absolutely fantastic time of 4 hours 41mins. They were true Dudley Ladies Heroines.

So from my perspective, the morale of this tale is: Never run on the hottest day of the year and expect a PB, but you can always complete the course, even if it's not pretty!

Oh well, back to the training next week for Lake Vyrnwy - there's only room for improvement!

Himley 5K

Tuesday 14th June saw numerous Dudley Ladies Beginners dip their toes in the water for their first taste of competitive running, following their successful 12 week course.......... and what an introduction it was,

Who will ever forget the uneven ground, long grass, rabbit holes, mole hills and that hill.

So congratulations to all that completed the race unscathed, including our first finisher back, Clare Dolan, closely followed by Paula Fletcher and all the others including Natalie Foxall, 61 year old Margaret Jones shown left, yes, I did say 61, Janet Beardsmore, Rachel Foster, Nicola Freeman, Penny Ladd, Debbie Whorriskey and all the others too numerous to mention.

Dudley Ladies Have A Highland Fling

Our race correspondent Amber Martin reports on the latest example of heroics by some of DL's finest when they did the Edinburgh Marathon on Sunday 12th June. Amber writes :-

Well done ladies, Brenda Hunt (4:40:26), Amber Martin (4:41:15), Sue Freeman (5:06:51), Anita Zammit (5:08:36) and Jenny Fraser (5:08:36), on successfully completing the Edinburgh Marathon on Sun 12th June.

Edinburgh was a magnificent setting for the race - the sights and friendly supporters lining the route took our minds off the hills, cobbles and torrential rain!

As the bagpipes signalled the start of the race, the Trailplus marathon camp which we attended at the start of our training in February seemed a world away, but that inspiring weekend spent in the Forest of Dean had given us the knowledge and confidence to know that we could succeed.

We've all suffered injuries and illness and grown tired of the long hours of training but, with each others support and that of our ever patient families

- we did it!

And the blood - ooh you should see Brenda's feet, sweat - yes ladies do, especially when running 26.2, and tears - well, crossing the finish line there wasn't a dry eye between us.

Record Turnout By Dudley Ladies and BIG Thank you From Organizers at Sandwell Race For Life.

Sunday 5th May saw yet another massive turnout by Dudley Ladies running in this very well worth cause that the Race For Life organizers had asked us to help with.

Not only did we have people running, but we also had people marshalling, handing out goody bags, cheerleading, finish co-ordinating and people who just wanted to help in any way that they could.

Mary Lavender had spent hours making everyone in the club a pink heart badge and pink ribbon bows for their hair which were worn with pride and greatly appreciated, so a big thank you to Mary for that.

To see the number of people that had been touched by cancer in some way was truly humbling.

The girls also made a very good friend of Jo Jesmond who is the 05.00 - 10.00am morning presenter on Beacon Radio with Mark Jeeves, and whilst comparing the event she also took time out to run it and very kindly gave Dudley Ladies a number of mentions over the PA system on the day and promised to promote us even further on her show during the week. So a big thank you to everyone concerned there.

The race comprised of nearly 3000 runners and walkers doing a one lap 5km circular route over the undulating and uneven pathways of the beautiful surroundings of Sandwell Valley, making any notion of a fast run a distant dream after the first 100 yards, so everyone just enjoyed the day, although special mentions must be made of Donna Proffitt, Cath Millard, Sheena Di Franco and yet again Mary Lavender who had exceptionally good runs considering the hot conditions and the number in the race.

For pictures of the day click on Jayne and Jeanette's photo on the right

In ideal race conditions, over 50 of Dudley Ladies finest joined 4,000 other women to hit the roads around Liverpool's Sefton Park to compete in the largest and oldest women's-only road race in the country.

Runners travelled from all parts of the country to race in this 19-year-old event and many Dudley Ladies were pleased and proud to complete their first race or achieve pb's on the day.

Wirral's Helen Lawrence, who won the event last year, took a break from her pharmacy studies to defend her title from the assembled field and after straining every sinew she just managed to out sprint our girls over the last remaining 6 miles, to win the race in 34.17.

Not that far behind was our own Pat Hackett in a pb 47.37, Mary Lavender in 52.04 and Debbie Stokes, our other 50 odd runners, other than our oldest runner Enid Brazier and youngest runner Jayne Cole are just too numerous to mention.

Full results can be found on http://www.joelee.co.uk/cgi-local/raceresults.cgi?event=../2005/liv/livwom05.html

The day out was thoroughly enjoyed by all and made all the more memorable by the antics of the girls on the coach on the way back. The perils of drinking too much red wine was there for all to see.

Who will ever forget Pam Edmunds impromptu Karaoke version of "Show me the way to go home", Brenda Chapman's Elvis impersonation and Jenny Jenks' pole dance that did so much to distract the driver and age him over night. He'll never be able to fully focus on the road again.

It was a Brilliant Brilliant Brilliant day out so thank you to all concerned!!!!!!!!!

British Lung Foundation12th Annual Lung Run,

 Dudley Ladies Race Correspondent, Alison Camwell reports that over 1,100 runners took part in this 10K race (and over 650 in the 5K race), at Sutton Park, Sutton Coldfield, on Sunday 24th April 2005

It was a tough, undulating, single lap course on the traffic-free roads within Sutton Park, but at least it was dry and sunny!

10K Race Results (race chip provided so accurate timings) can be found on :- http://www.lunguk.org/documents/Midlands10Kresultsbytime.pdf

For the record, Amber Martin led the club home in 54.25, followed by 0:57:47 Sandra Wollaston, 1:00:51 Tracey Deeley, 1:05:01 Sue Marsh, 1.05.03 Sue Freeman, 1:05:36 Alison Camwell, 1.10.02 Ann Johnson, and 1.12.53 Rachel Gould and Enid Brazier.

 

Dudley Ladies London Heroes

Raj Sanghera, Jessica Stones and Pam Edmunds proudly show off their London Marathon medals and tee-shirts after finishing the event on Sunday 17th April.

All three ladies only took up running last year with Jessica graduating from day one of the 2004 beginners course and Pam and Raj coming even later.

Pam was the star of the blisteringly hot day completing the grueling 26.2 mile course in 5hrs 24 edging just in front of Jessica by a mere 42 seconds which was an amazing coincidence considering that they couldn't find each other at the start and ran all the way independently and stranger still, that Raj was only a few minutes behind them.

All three thoroughly enjoyed the day and can't wait to do it again next year, providing that they've stopped walking like penguins by then.

Dudley Ladies Travel Far and Wide

Sunday the 28th Feb saw hordes of Dudley Ladies take to the roads at various races around the country, with the Action Heart 5 miler at Dudley and the Daffodil Half Marathon & 10K runs at Northampton being the most popular.

At the Marie Curie Daffodil runs, Jayne Cole, shown above left, who only started running with Dudley Ladies in September and Sandra Wollaston both ran their very first Half Marathons in sub-2 hours 20mins. Sue Marsh, who joined us at the end of last year ran her first 10K race in under 1 hour 7mins, and Gill Criddle and Alison Camwell managed to knock over 7 minutes off their previous PB's to finish in 1 hour 4 minutes (all thanks to Phil's speed training no doubt!).

It was a gorgeous sunny day, but a bit chilly, with a few snow flurries in the later stages of the Half Marathon. The start and finish lines were in the grounds of Castle Ashby stately home and the undulating and rather exposed course, which was closed to traffic, went through the local countryside. A head wind felt as if it holding everyone back all the way round though, and the last hill leading up towards the finish line certainly took it's toll on the old legs, which makes the performances on the day even more impressive.

At the Action Heart run, nearly 900 runners turned out on an equally bright and sunny but bitterly cold day. Stars of the day were again Sue Hickman and Donna Conncannon running 45:18 & 45:19 respectively, closely followed by Jenny Jenks 48:35, Dee Templar 49:58, Hilary Mills 50:38, Louise Williams 50:42, Pat Scott 51:20, Corrinne Ferrier 53:21, Nickola Smith 53:22, Helen Dunwell 53:33, Rachel Gould 53:45, Emma Brand 55:10, Clare Jenks 55:16, Paula Fletcher 58:50, Lisa Green 1:01:00, Renee Clarke 1:01:00, Enid Brazier 1:02:58, Fiona Braiden 1:04:01 and a host of others too numerous to mention.

The girls report that the course was 5 miles long with just two hills in it, problem was that both hills were about 2 miles long each, none the less, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day and it whetted their appetites for other races to come.

Bring on the Liverpool

For pictures of the Action Heart Race, click on the camera on the right

Wednesday 4th May saw record numbers of Dudley Ladies take part in the very popular DK 10k at Wallheath. For many of our members, this was their first race since graduating from the Beginners and all acredited themselves well.

First home was Pat Hackett followed by just too many to mention.

For photo's of the race please click on the camera on the right.

Trans Icelandic Trek

Our hunky sports therapist John Murphy would like to introduce you to a very daunting challenge called the Trans Icelandic Trek in which he has become involved. He writes :-

"Intense Fitness kettle bells hit Iceland, no not the frozen food store but the land of saga’s and hero’s. Talking of hero’s let me introduce you to 3 ladies that I certainly think are made of the right stuff. 

Jane, the lady that runs Living Springs (www.livingsprings.co.uk) 

Liz, who is busy working up to do the 20 20 

Beryl, who recently has taken up kettle bells to help with her fitness goals, 

Now I was going to put each ladies individual age down but I decided against that and lets just say they hit the combined age of 168 years, so it would be fair to say these ladies are mature. 

So why when most people are looking to slow down a little are these ladies doing the exact opposite and going to tackle a Trans Icelandic Trek, it’s all to raise money for a worthy cause which is “Living Springs”, please use the link above to have a look at the web site which will explain a lot better than I can the aims of the charity, because after all what can be more important than family. 

The trek itself is a five-day trek over Iceland carrying equipment which if you have been to Iceland and I am talking from experience will certainly be a challenge well worth backing, the ladies will be camping out (no 5 star experience for these girls) each night until completion of the trek, nice soft volcanic rock to lie on. 

The girls have been doing a fair amount of walking to get fit for the event, but I introduced them to kettle bells with two aims, fitness, and rehab. 

Jane likes her fitness and runs (when she has time in her busy schedule) and attends circuit classes once a week; Jane also suffered some knee pains the idea behind Jane getting her bell was to fit some training into her life style (Jane fits to many days into the week) and also to help with some strengthening 

Liz was struggling with niggling injuries and sciatic type back and leg pains which although was responding to treatment I believed that the good old “what the?” effect attached to the bell would work well for Liz by strengthening her posterior chain and help eliminate some of the dysfunction I found there. Liz is very busy as a self-employed bookkeeper. 

Now last but not least to Beryl, who is in full time employment as a Project Manager for the NHS, Beryl came to see me with Knee joint pain and got into kettle bells before I met her via the 2 other ladies, she is doing some rehab work at the gym for her knee but we will wean her of that and get her to do more bell work. 

The girls have all got an 8kg bell that they use for training they are concentrating on “the Swing” which after all is the daddy of all kettle bell exercises. The aim would be to get them all up to doing 20 sets of 20 reps to give them strength endurance for the walk, as I believe they will need it.  

The eventual aim is to raise £30,000 towards a building conversion so the charity can do more of its valuable work helping children and families when they need it most, so lets get together as a community and see if we can back the girls and help to raise a little money, all donations would be very grateful received and used well, after all charity begins at home.  

If you require any more information please do not hesitate to contact me by email at sports.injury@virgin.net "

John (Spud) Murphy.

Thursday the 16th December saw large numbers Dudley Ladies boogie on down to the Dudley Arms in Himley and start the festive season off with a bang.

The night was a great success and anyone that couldn't make it missed a cracker, it's definitely one for next year's diary.

Stars of the night were Mary Lavender and Caroline Glover, who's professional dance training was there for all to see. The only thing missing was "THAT" red dress and the pole that Caroline normally uses.

Ronnie brought half of the Philippines with her, in the shape of her family and friends and Jan Cook was well into showing off the many different things that she could do with a couple of party poppers and an ample bosom.

Jan's antics led to Ann Harris finding a particularly novel use for two half coconut type spheres down the front of her dress and was more than happy to show off her new found assets to anybody she could find.

Later in the evening Nicola Plant and her family took over the dance floor when her sister-in-law showed what can be done with a chair and a bit of rhythm after a few drinks, although it has to be said that Pam Edmunds, Gail Edwards and Isobel Stavenuiter gave them a good run for their money.

The evening also gave the opportunity to a number of "old" girls who for one reason or another haven't been able come down the club for some time, to renew old friendships. Sally Das Gupta, Yvonne Lovell, Frieda Griffiths and Dawn Keeley, to name just four were particularly prominent and it was really nice to see them all again.

Special thanks and presentations were given to Louise Hipkiss and Brenda Chapman without whom none of the above would have taken place together with a couple of prezzies for Phil and Rita for being old.

A special surprise gift of white fur-trimmed padded handcuffs was presented to 65 year old Len Brazier in order that wife Enid can keep on top of her training throughout the winter.

It was a BRILLIANT night, so thanks again to everybody that made it such a success.

For pictures of the night, click on the picture on the right.

On Sunday the 5th December around 70 of Dudley Ladies finest joined 4000 other "runners" in Newtown Powys to take part in the largest Santa Run in Europe.

Everyone had a brilliant time and we even supplied the youngest runner of the day in the form of one year old Callum who was pushed round by Grandmother Brenda Chapman.

A number of pubs were visited during the "race" but these obstacles didn't deter us and we still managed to conger down the High Street carrying our Dudley Ladies banner to finish the "race".

This Santa theme was carried over to Tuesday night the 7th December when everybody dressed up in something festive for our annual Christmas run around the pubs and streets of Wombourne. Our very good friend Jeremy from Sweatshop was on hand to judge the Best Dressed Runner and prizes were awarded to Gail Edwards, Michelle Woodyatt and Debbie Scott, who were outstanding.

It was also Brenda Chapman's birthday and she was surprised to be presented with a bouquet of flowers, a card and a number of bottles of wine as a thank you from everyone at Dudley Ladies

For photos of the day click on the camera on the right

DUDLEY LADIES HAVE SUCH FUN

With thanks to the wit and charm of Tracey Green

Phil said it was easy

Rita said it was fun

To put on our lycra and go on a run

3 miles in 3 months and you’ll be a star

A thrust, a stretch and you’ll go far

We had our prep and hit the pitch

We worked up a sweat, got cramp and stitch

Phil cracked a joke, Rita a smile

This was the start of our very first mile

The established ladies had done this before

They did their stretches and were out through the door

In 12 months time I’d be the same

Watching the beginners join our game

That was then and here we are

Established ladies who’ve come so far

Dudley Ladies have such fun

Come rain come shine or how far we run.

Kings College London contacted us with an offer for cheap accommodation for anyone wishing to stay over in the capital for the London Marathon, although in practice, you will see that their room rates apply until September 2005 if you fancy a cheap weekend break

To book a reservation. ring +44 (0)20 7848 1700,  Email stopover@kcl.ac.uk or visit their website at www.kcl.ac.uk/kcvb  Please quote Booking Reference "AAA 2005" to obtain the preferential rates above.

Sunday 21st November saw large groups of Dudley Ladies taking on the mud, hills and stream crossings of the Suicide Six at Himley, whilst others took their buckets and spades to Llandudno and ran a very cold and windy ten miler.

In the Suicide Six, stars of the day were Jenny Fraser, Anita Zammit and Jo Ashley, pictured left, in their commemorative tee shirts, together with Sue Hickman and Donna Concannon, who took the opportunity to improve her breast stroke technique through the stream crossing.

For more pictures of the girls slugging it out in the mud, click on their picture above.

At Llandudno, 63 year old Enid Brazier was again in evidence showing some of the younger girls how it should be done but had to concede to the likes of Sandra Wollaston, Alison Camwell, Tracy Deeley and race virgin Gloria Bell pictured right, who all did the club proud.

The 27th December saw some of Dudley Ladies finest attempt to detox and blow away some of the excess Christmas Pud and Sherry Triffle by taking part in this years Wheaton Aston "10K" on a very cold and frozen over Monday morning.

Leading the group home was newcomer Rebecca Carpenter in 49min.13sec, who did the club's beginners induction in record time and is now showing just what she is capable of.

Rebecca was closely followed by Amber Martin who had co-hearsed  her friend Suzanne Bache to enter her first ever race. Suzanne's post race comments probably best remain between her and Amber.

Other brave souls that tested the treacherously icy conditions on the day were Nikki Siddons, Michelle Stanley, Karen Styles, Tracey Green, Michelle Woodyatt and Jessica Stones (using it as part of her London Marathon preparations, to name but a few.

In the children's fun run, Sian James took the opportunity to give her family their yearly airing, as did Jan Brookes who is slowly recovering from a knee injury and it has to be said that a jolly good time was had by all.

If you want to see some photos of the day then click on the camera on the right

Karen Vaughen, one of Dudley Ladies youngest and longest serving members is currently laid up in excruciating pain with a Sciatica type back problem, which she stresses is nothing to do with running.

Karen is normally one of the best runners in the club but at the moment just being able to walk with the aid of a zimmer frame is a real achievement.

Phil popped around and presented Karen with a bouquet of flowers, a box of chocolates and a card from all of us and she sends her regards to everyone and hopes to be back soon.

She's missing you all, so a call or a note from anyone that knows her would help raise her spirits enormously.

Good News - A Baby Girl For Lesley

Lesley Bossons, one of our long established runners gave birth to a baby girl on the 12th October. Her name is Lucy Victoria and she weighed in at 6lbs 03oz via the bay window instead of the more conventional front door.

Because of this Lesley will be out of action for a few more weeks yet but hopes to be back running asap.

Club Tee-Shirts Have Arrived

When you join Dudley Ladies or renew your subs, you receive a free club Tee-Shirt.

Well this year, we thought we'd give everybody a treat and provide them with a long sleeved one instead.

So hurry down to the club ASAP and pick yours up before your size goes.

With the dark nights and all this wet weather about, you might be thinking of restocking your winter running wardrobe.

Well if you are, Phil has just gone out and bought a load Running Jackets, Gillets, Helly Hanson Tops, Reflective Bibs and Baseball Caps etc.

The Coats and Gillets cost £10, the Helly Hansons £15 and the Reflective Bibs £8.

All the garments are in the club colours of Royal and Gold and are printed with the new club logo in reflective print on the back and if I say so myself, they do look quite smart.

Quantities and sizes are limited so if you are interested best get in quick.

Samples are available for you to try on down the club or you can go the clothing page via the picture link on the left to see a selection of the items on display.

Remember!!  if you want to run like a runner, then you have to look like a runner.

Condolences

Brenda Chapman's mother died very unexpectedly on the 30th October aged 72.

Brenda, who is one of the friendliest, most helpful and popular ladies in the club was very close to her mother, so we're sure that everyone will join us in offering their condolences, support and best wishes to her during what is obviously going to be a very difficult time.

September saw record turnouts by Dudley Ladies in a number of races throughout the month.

Sunday 19th September saw 26 Dudley Ladies finest take on the splendour of the Lake Vyrnwy Half Marathon.

First home for the club was newcomer Amie Smith, shown right, in 1hr:57:48, ably supported by the following ladies who all did personal bests, Sue Hickman, Donna Concannon, Debbie Stokes, Jenny Jenks, Claire Powell, Amber Martin, Sue Freeman, Jan Brookes, Karen Styles, Caroline Glover and a whole host of other brave souls too numerous to mention, so apologies to them.

The photographs show some of the girls before the start and others in post race celebrations. Well done to everyone who took part, you did Dudley Ladies proud !!!!!!

To see the race results in full go to http://www.race-results.co.uk/results/2004/vyrnwyh.pdf

Dudley Ladies Make Headline News

On Friday the 20th August Dudley Ladies were again making the headlines when we were featured in the Express & Star newspaper. Photographs were taken and interviews given and the end result was a very pleasant confirmation of everything that we know already. Dudley Ladies is the best ladies running club in the Midlands.

Following the article we have been inundated with new recruits all wanting to learn to run. So many recruits in fact that Rita has been forced to start another Beginners Course. So if there are any more absolute beginners out there waiting for next April come to Wombourne Leisure Centre now before it's too late.

Click on the link above for a brief summarized transcript of the article which unfortunately does not do justice to the real thing.

Dudley Ladies Profiled in Sunday Mercury

On Sunday the 1st August 2004, three of Dudley Ladies finest were profiled in the Sunday Mercury newspaper.

The newspaper had heard a lot of good things about the club and wanted to find out more about what we did and how we did it and when they heard  Rita's, Enid Brazier's and Sarah Thomas's inspirational stories they decided to do a double page spread as a way of encouraging other women to take up the sport and maybe do the Flora Light Challenge in Birmingham this September.

Photo shoots were arranged and lengthy statements were given and the end result was pretty good other than a number of minor factual details such as Phil's age which he is thinking of suing over.

For people that haven't seen the article, copies are available at the club.

Dudley Ladies Show Their Glamorous Side

Dudley Ladies Running Club held it’s annual presentation evening at The Park Hall Hotel Wolverhampton on Friday 2^nd July when over 140 people turned up to be presented with medals, certificates and commemorative Tee-shirts to mark the end of our now well established 12-week beginners running course. 

Every year Dudley Ladies Running Club organize a beginners running course for women who have either never run before or else haven’t run for some time and they want lose weight, get fit or start again.

This year’s course attracted nearly 200 ladies. 

A target of running 3 miles by the end of the 12 weeks course was set and everyone was coached, cajoled, supported and monitored to enable them to achieve it. 

Some women got so bitten by the bug this year that they went on and did even further. In fact a group of these years’ beginners have already completed a number of The Run for Life races and are now contemplating the London Marathon. 

As a way of recognizing the effort and commitment given by certain outstanding members of the group, who all overcame various personal obstacles to achieve what was first thought to be an impossible dream, special achievement trophies were awarded to :-