2007 NEWS

Hampshire Cross Country

This year's Hampshire AA Cross Country Championships returned after a three year absence to a true cross country course, Dibden Inclosure on the edge of the New Forest. About 690 athletes entered the championships which took place on a day that saw some showers but started and ended in sunshine. Athletes were competing for selection to represent Hampshire in the televised National Inter-counties Championships to be held in Nottingham during March. Eight places per age group were up for grabs with performance at these championships, plus previous form to be taken into consideration.

The only medal winner of the day was Phill Berntsen. Having won the under 17s title last year, Phill started as favourite in this years under 20s event. The two lap 8k race was run in conjunction with the seniors race, with the seniors completing an additional lap (11.7k). Phill took the race in his stride, staying in contention with the leading seniors to come over the line with ease in the gold medal position in a terrific time of 26 minutes dead, well over a minute ahead of his nearest rival.

Sarah Holiday had the next highest finish to come in 4^th in the under 20 womens 6.1k race in a time of 23:50.

Both the aforementioned races were at the top end of allowable distance for the age groups which suited both Phill and Sarah. Unfortunately, for the younger age groups, the distances were very much at the lower end which did not suit Andover’s younger long distance runners. The under 15 boys team struggled with the short course of just 3.3k, unusually the same distance as the under 15 girls. First Andover lad home was Chris Berntsen in 6^th place (11:28), followed by Tom Bennett in 11^th (11.38), Alex Rudge 14th (11:46), Christopher Adams 16^th (11:55), Daniel Grinham 23^rd (12:28), Ricky Taylor 33^rd (13:00) and Christopher Neil 34^th (13:03). The team took 4^th place missing out on the bronze medal by just 3 points.

Andover had 3 competitors in the under 15 girls race, Christie Woodford had a much better run this year to come 15^th in a time of 13:44 just missing out by one place for Hampshire consideration. Also competing were Charlotte Brown 26^th (14:59) and Grace Patterson 32^nd (15:53).

Ellora Milsom took 8^th place in the under 13 girls 2.5k race, again a very short distance, in 9:33. Ellora was followed home by Millie Dobinson in 33^rd place (11:10) and Lauren Marlow in 36^th (11:48).

It was great to see so many Andover athletes competing in the under 13 boys event. Building on his excellent track season Roland Barter completed the 2.5k course in 9:50 to come 19^th. Just behind in 20^th place was James Pitt in a time of 9:53. They were joined by Luke Holman 24^th (10:00), Ben Morris 26^th (10:07), Mike Adams 27^th (10:09), Solomon Lane 32^nd (10:18) and Francis Proctor 35^th (11:02). The under 13 boys team also just missed out on a bronze team medal to come 4^th.

By contrast, the senior mens and veterans race was very long, 11.7k. Kearon Hooley continued his improving form and was first Andover Senior Man home to finish 39^th in a time of 42:36 (43^rd overall). Tim Bennett also had an excellent run coming over the line in 52:27, 13^th M45 (123^rd overall), just behind Tim was David Cleghorn 16^th M45 in 53:11 (128^th overall). Kelvin Mason achieved 8^th in the M55 category, 55:16 (139^th overall), Gavin Watley, 75^th SM, 55:21 (140 overall) and finally Derek Jarvis who took 4^th place in the M60 category in a time of 55:32 (143 overall).

Following the above performances Phill, Sarah, Chris, Tom, Alex and Ellora are all being considered for Hampshire selection at the National Inter-counties Championships.

Inter Counties Cross Country Championships

No less than seven young athletes from Andover AC, who are sponsored by CK Building Contractors Ltd, were selected to compete for Hampshire in the prestigious Southern Inter-Counties Cross Country Championships which were held at one of the toughest courses in the UK, Parliament Hill, London. This course was made all the more difficult due to heavy rain and strong winds. The course weaves up and down the incredibly steep hills around and over parliament hill, which even without the rain is always extremely muddy.

Tom Bennett and Chris Adams were in the first race of the day, the under 15 boys. In what was arguably his best race of the winter season so far, Tom Bennett pushed athletes a year older than him to finish an incredible 31^st out of 150 competitors who were representing their counties from all over the South. Tom will still be in this age group next year so this performance shows great potential. Chris Adams had only returned to training that week specifically to enable him to compete. Despite still nursing an injury Chris was determined not to let the team down and, following a dogged run which saw him cross the line in 66^th, his team manager was full of praise for his fine effort.

Ellora Milsom made her Hampshire debut in the under 13 girls race. It was a nervous start for Elloria, her first experience of such a large and high calibre field. Being on the start line with so many athletes can be very daunting, with the initial push at the start creating a mealy of opportunity for incident. Ellora therefore started the race conservatively towards the back of the pack and then made steady progress through the field passing many more established athletes along the way to cross the line in 50^th place. Her efforts were duly rewarded as she helped the Hampshire team pick up team gold. Her coach, Helen Dobinson said, ‘This was Ellora’s best race of the season. A fantastic experience and picking up a team gold to boot.’

Kearon Hooley was competing for the Hampshire under 23s team. Kearon has had a torrid time with injuries and it was nice to see him gain another county vest after 12 months of set backs and heartache. Kearon was a little nervous at the start, but after one lap of the gruelling three lap 10k race he really started to find his stride. His hard work in training held him in good stead for the steep hills littered throughout the course, passing runner after runner to finish in a brilliant 23^rd place.

Sadly, due to injury and other commitments three of the seven, Phill and Chris Berntsen and Alex Rudge were unable to compete on the day.

However, Phill did get some good news this week. Following his fine run at Liverpool a few weeks ago, he has been confirmed as selected for the England under 20s team for an international cross country match to be held in Elgoibar, Spain during January.

Road runners update

Andover ACs mens road runners team leads Division 3 of the Hampshire Road Race League following some very consistent team results in the first four races. The series started at Overton's 5 mile race in September where the team was represented by Phill Berntsen, Matt Lane, Kelvin Mason and Ian Oldacre. In a high quality race, Phil finished 19th. The team finished 2^nd against the teams in Division 3, behind Basingstoke's track runners.

The next race was the Solent Half Marathon, a picturesque course on the eastern side of the New Forest. First Andover finisher was Gavin Whatley, in a personal best 1:37. The team was completed by Kelvin Mason, Martin Welsh and Ian Oldacre. Again 2^nd place was achieved, behind Fleet & Crockham on this occasion.

The third race in the series was the Gosport Half Marathon, held in perfect running conditions on the last Sunday of November. The team was led home by David Cleghorn in 1:33, who was supported by Sam Geoghegan, who ran a personal best of 1:35.30, and Gavin Whatley, who beat his previous best with 1:36. The team was completed by Matt Lane, who ran 1:39. 2^nd place was achieved, this time behind Team Southampton. Four other Andover runners made up the B team. They were led by Derek Jarvis (Over 60) who edged out Kelvin Mason (Over 55), also in 1:39, which was Kelvin's best race for several years. The team was completed by John Frost (1:44) and Ian Griffin.

The Victory 5 Mile race took place on the following Sunday. Andover were represented by Matt Lane, Gavin Whatley, Ian Willis, club stalwart Kelvin Mason, who'd run the Overton cross country race for the club on the previous day, Ian Oldacre, Ian Griffin, and running in the ladies event, Jackie Jones. In windy conditions Matt's 33.40 represented an excellent return to form. The team nearly achieved 1^st place, but were edged out by Havant. With six races still to go the Andover team are well placed to achieve their aim of moving up to Division two.

Whilst seven runners battled the wind and rain at Portsmouth, Sheila Ridge took part in the three lap marathon on the outskirts of Luton. The psychology of running a marathon is hard enough on a single lap couse but to pass the finishing post at the end of lap one, then the end of lap two still having over eight miles to go makes this race particularly demanding. With 1000 runners taking part she was rewarded with a nice medal but disappointed by the lack of chocolate bars at the finish! Andover AC are kindly sponsored by CK Building Contractors.

Phil comes close to first GB Vest

Phill Berntsen, the young Andover AC athlete came close to his first Great Britain vest when he competed at the UK Cross Challenge held at Sefton Park in Liverpool, a race that also incorporated the U20 trials for the European Cross Country Championships to be held in Toro, Spain. Although the 17 year old was pitched up against the best under 20 men the UK has to offer, Phill’s target was to come close to a top 10 position.

One hundred & fifty competitors started the race and, with six GB qualification places for the European Championships up for grabs, competition was fierce, fast and furious. However, right from the start Phill’s dream seemed to be over. Having started the race far too slowly he found himself about 130^th after the first turn, with the leaders already 200m further advanced and a seemly insurmountable task ahead of him. But, with dogged determination Phill moved quickly through the back markers and by the second lap of the 6.7k course had already advanced to a mid 40s position.

Although a relatively flat course, heavy rain the night before made running conditions sticky and energy sapping for all. Nevertheless, Phill stuck to his task and with 1k to go had miraculously moved up to the low 20s, with his goal of a top 10 place marked up by a long string of athletes dotted over a few hundred metres in front of him. Demonstrating sheer determination and endurance Phill increased his speed seemingly eating up the ground and athletes in front of him, eventually taking his last 3 in the final uphill finish to take 9^th place in a time of 21.48. Definitely Phill’s best performance to date and with five of the eight competitors in front of him moving out of this age group at the end of December he is hoping that his second international call up is not too far away.

Also running in the under 20 womens race was Sarah Holiday. Although still competing for Andover AC, Sarah attends University in Cardiff and is therefore trained locally by Phil Banning, the Wales National Coach, but interestingly, Phil was also an Andover AC and International athlete from the 1960s and 70s. Sarah also performed well, steadily working her way through the field during the 4.4k course to come a very creditable 43^rd in a time of 17:15. Andover AC are kindly sponsored by CK Building Contractors.

Four Andover runners compete

In France

Four of Andover ACs under 15 boys team were selected to represent Hampshire in the 25th annual International Cross-Country Races in Coutances (Nomandy), France. Tom Bennett and Alex Rudge were selected to compete in the Minimes Garcon (under 14s race) and Chris Berntsen and Chris Adams in the Cadets (under 16s race). In spite of the terrible weather conditions of torrential rain and strong winds all four boys put in high calibre performances with all achieving top 10 places in their respective races.

Tom Bennett achieved the highest finish in the bronze medal position, with Alex Rudge just behind him in 4th. Tom and Alex were 1st and second home for Hampshire. In the Cadets race, Chris Berntsen finished in 5th place (2nd Hampshire) with Chris Adams in 9th place (3rd Hampshire).

Hampshire had a very strong team in the Cadets race, having already got one home in 3rd and their final team member back in 16th they came second, just missing out on team gold by 1 point. Andover AC is kindly sponsored by CK Building Contractors.

Coaching Updates

Andover AC facilitated a UK Athletics coaching course to help 22 local Andover and Overton athletes, parents and supporters to gain their UK Athletics Level 1 coaching award. The course was run by one of Andover ACs senior coaches, James Coney who runs these courses all over the South of England.

The UK Athletics Education and Training Scheme is based on a five level structure, designed to meet the needs, specialisms and particular areas of interest of all participants within the sport and with the aim of increasing the level of coaching right from the grass roots level of the sport. The Level 1 award is a basic introduction to the coaching process applied to the fundamental technical components of running, jumping and throwing thereby qualifying the coach to assist in the delivery of coaching sessions.

The award will allow those that attended to assist a Level 2 or above coach and, with supervision, lead athletes in safe and fun coaching sessions. This initiative is very important to both clubs, as with ever increasing numbers, especially children, there are more and more requirements for higher numbers of volunteers and in order to ensure the clubs can continue to grow they must have more volunteers with at least a Level 1 coaching qualification. Each qualification is valid for two years. Andover AC is sponsored by CK Building Contractors.

Andover AC had its Annual Presentation Evening to celebrate the 2006/2007 season and to say thank you to its faithful sponsors; CK Building Contractors, Petty Wood, Race Dynamics and Rustlers. The evening was once again held at Wykeham Club, a brilliant venue for this type of event with terrific and hard working staff. The Awards were presented this year by local GB Athlete Robert Tobin.

The top male and female award, Athletes Athlete, voted for by all club members, whose ages range from 8 to 72, deservedly went to Emma Dunham and Ricky Taylor. Emma for her tremendous achievements on the road, proving her status as the Club’s number one female road runner. Ricky also picked up the Foord Plaque given for potential specifically in the Under 15 age group. Ricky initially volunteered to do the hurdles for club points at an early Wessex League match. Having enjoyed the event he did some hurdles training, and saw his times tumble with each outing, culminating in a County selection and a club record in the very gruelling 400m hurdles.

The Sumner Summer Award – which is given to the male and female athletes who have had an outstanding track & field season. Under 11s Matt Chant was an easy choice. His long list of achievements were: National Independent Schools Champion at 75m, relay and third in the long jump, Wessex League winner. Matt also achieved a massive six club records during the season covering 75m, 80m, 150m, 600m, Long Jump & Ball Throw - the full set of Under 11 club records, this is achievement is without precedence, what a talent!

The female Sumner Summer Award went to Claire Patterson. This under 15 girl is also one to watch. The fact that she has consistently run sub 13 for the 100m and sub 27 for the 200m on numerous occasions shows just how talented she is. Her personal bests are currently 100m 12.9 and 200m 26.7. She was 3rd at the Hampshire Championships in both the 100m and the 200m. Claire was also second at the Hampshire Schools Track and Field Championships and went onto to run for Hampshire Schools at the Southern Inter Counties.

The Winter Award given for an outstanding cross-country season. Phill Berntsen (U20) picked up the male award. His major achievements were; 7th at the English Schools championships, 5th Southern Championships, Hampshire Champion, Hampshire Cross Country League Champion, 2nd Hampshire Schools, 1st Inter-counties Schools, 1st Regional British collages and 6th British Collages Championships.

Definitely her break through season, Sarah Holliday took the female winter award. Sarah also competed at the English Schools having come 7th in the County Championships. This result also qualified her to run for Hampshire at the Southern Inter-counties. Sarah also qualified for the British Collages Championships where she helped her team to take the gold medal.

Road Runners Points Trophy. A league table is run throughout the season the male and female winners this year were Derek Jarvis and Sheila Ridge.

Alex Rudge (U15) won the Banning Winter Award, given for a one off winter achievement. This award was given for Alex’s performance at the Hampshire schools, where despite tripping over at the start he came through from last to 11th as a bottom age group runner, earning his Schools representative vest the hard way.

Roland Barter was awarded the Banning Rose Bowl for a tremendous personal best in the javelin at the Andover Young Athletes meeting, coupled with good performances in the long jump and 1500m displaying what a rounded and talented athlete he is

Round the Park 5-Mile

The inaugural Andover Athletic Club ‘Round the Park’ 5-mile race took place on Sunday in near perfect conditions. Over 50 runners lined up for the start on the Charlton Leisure Centre Athletic Track; the competitors following a scenic, but testing, course covering two laps of the Charlton park and lakes. With the finish also on the track, this made good viewing for the many families who came to watch and support.

First man home was Stuart Anderson from Amesbury in 28m. 47s. 2^nd: Mark Anderson, Pewsey (29.00) and 3^rd: Gerard Beauvoisin, Denmead (30.30). A special mention must go to an outstanding performance by the youngest competitor, Under 17 Tim Clacy who finished 4^th overall in a superb time of 31 minutes 40seconds.

First lady across the line was Emma Dunham of Andover AC in 34m 28s; 2^nd and 3^rd saw local runners Gail Taylor (36.12) and Kath Godber (39.13) achieve podium positions.

A clean sweep by Overton Harriers in the veterans over 40 categories came from Dave Titcomb and Moira West.

The male Andover club runners were led home by Ian Willis, closely followed by Rob Phillips, Gavin Whatley, Clive Handscombe and Andrew Fletcher. Parents and club supporters took the chance to have a run, whilst their offspring took up the role of race marshals with smiling faces and hearty cheering which was much appreciated by all of the runners, Tim Bennett surprised and surpassed himself by falling over the finish line in a fantastic 9^th overall. In the rising temperatures Sandra Horner and Jo Samways were delighted to finish the race in one piece and have both vowed to come back stronger next year.

Race Organiser and Head Coach, Jean Taylor, and Andover Athletic Club wish to thank CK Building Contractors and TVBC Leisure Services for their support in staging this event, which all agreed was a resounding success; and the club was rewarded with numerous compliments on a well-organised race. The competitors went home looking forward to a similar event being held next year.

Road Runners Roundup

Ten Andover AC road runners turned out for the Winchester 5k, more of a sprint really for the runners who are more accustomed to much longer distances. Nevertheless, the ten athletes set about their job with determination and used it to hone their speed in readiness for longer races later in the season.

A beautiful summer evening, the race starting by King Alfred’s statue and finishing in the Abbey Gardens. The route was three laps taking in the High Street, some tricky corners around the Cathedral, alongside the river, exiting on to the road via a narrow slope or steps.

Dougie Brisco was first Andover runner home looking his usual easy, relaxed self in a time of 17.46 which gave him 23rd place overall and 3rd M50 back.

David Cleghorn also set himself a good steady pace to be among the front runners finishing in a time of 19.55 to come 5th M45 (59th overall). Emma Dunham took the honours for the ladies. Despite carrying a slight injury she completed the course in 20.25 to take first place for the W35 category.

Easy going Ian Willis managed to work up a sweat. He completed a good race even though he did manage to get into a collision with a bollard on a sharp corner (20.45. M40 14th).

Ian Oldacre produced his normal high level performance to come 4th M55 back in a time of 22.20. Ian was followed in by Kelvin Mason, who is coming back to form and was only just thwarted in his attempt to catch him (22.22. M55 6th).

Husband and wife team David and Anneke Walmsley both had a good runs, Anneke also managing to smile all the way round. David 17th M45 (24.13) and just behind Anneke 26.40 (7th W40).

Sheila Rudge as always rose to the challenge and turned in a good time of 27.54 giving her W50 3rd place, with Jo Samways just behind in a time of 28.09.

Other results over the month were: Winchester 10k, John Neathley (50.50) and Joan White (57.57), Marlborough Lumpy Bumpy 10 mile trial race, Shelia Ridge (2:01.46), Bishops Canning 5.6k (28.0), Cumbria Newlands Valley 9k, Ian Oldacre 6th M50 (44.14). And last but not least Mike McGuire competed in the Marshside 50 mile challenge held in Kent. Andover AC Road Runners are kindly sponsored by local firm CK Building Contractors.

National Junior League – Brighton

Andover, Basingstoke and Winchester athletic clubs put in a joint tem for the first time in the National Junior League which caters for the U17s and U20s categories. This match was held at Withdean Stadium (home of Brighton FC), not a regular venue, so nice for the athletes to run on a different track. Although the weather was quite windy for a change it was SUNNY!!

Andover competitors in this combined team, who are sponsored by CK Building Contractors, were Phill Berntsen, James Folkes, James Whitehead Richard Pritcher, and Emma Brown

Phill Berntsen competed in the 3000m and led from start to finish. There was no real competition running a very comfortable 9.04 to win over 30 seconds ahead of second place.

James Folkes managed to run his second fastest ever 400m 52.4, despite being on the back of an injury hit season. He controlled the race through to 300m but lacked the strength and faded over the last 100m to finish 4th. However the talented sprinter was happy with his performance and determined to break the 51 sec barrier before the end of the season. James stepped up to run the fourth leg in the 4 x 100m and ran a very impressive leg to bring the team from fifth to third.

James Whiteman also ran an impressive 400m to also record his second fastest ever time of 55.2, narrowly missing a new personal best by two tenths of a second. James is racing the 400m at the next men’s league fixture and looks forward to continue his first real season for two years.

Richard Pritcher also had a busy day competing in the 100m, 200m, and 4 x 100m proving his ability across the sprints.

Emma Brown was the only female competitor from Andover and ran a solid 100m recording 14.8 (seasons best) and 3.90m in the long jump. Emma was also part of the 4 x 100m relay team that finished third.

Overall the team did very well and finished third overall. This is the first season we have had a joint team and look forward to continuing this allegiance.

Wessex League Andover

For the first time this season, the sun shone on the Charlton Sports Centre Athletics Track. The home team of Andover came up against opponents from Bournemouth, Weymouth, New Forest, Team Kennet and Woking in the third round of the Wessex League Team Championships. With the help of many committee members, parents and friends Andover put on what was deemed to be one of the best organised meetings of the season. With the preparation in place well before the start time this enabled the athletes to concentrate purely on their events which showed in some fantastic results including 59 personal best (PB) performances by the Andover athletes.

The under 13 girls team finished 2nd whilst the under 13 boys, under 15 girls and under 15 boys were all victorious.

With so many amazing performances there are far too many to mention them all, some of the highlights for the coaching team at Andover were:

Newcomers Jack Templeman (long jump) Shane Chalker (javelin) and club stalwart Josh Phillips (sprints) in the under 13 boys stood out. Under 13 girl Emily Woodhouse following in her brothers footsteps produced a superb series of throws to win the discus event with 19.68m. Adam Harwood and Chris Adams (400m) were involved in two of the most exciting races of the day, Chris seems to get a PB whenever he steps out on the track and Adam produced a time of 55.2 which any 400m runner would be proud of. The under 15 girls team benefited from the “never say die” attitude of Rosie Taylor (long jump) and Hayley Pocock (javelin) and Charlotte Brown who ran a PB in the 800m, despite suffering from a broken toe and still smiling as she crossed the line. New Andover coach Franki Hansen put her competitors vest back on for the under 20s 100m and was delighted to knock nearly a second off her previous best. Andover AC is kindly sponsored by CK Building Contractors.

Hampshire Schools years 7 & 8

Carrying on the successes of previous years Andover Athletic Club shared in the delight of the local schools with more medals being won at the recent Year 7 & 8 Hampshire Schools Championships.

The first win of the day came from Gary Jones (Winton School) in the Year 8 boys discus, throwing out to a distance of 31.89m. Gary has had a fine season and deserves the title of County Champion in recognition of his (and his dads) hard work and dedication to the sport. Another County Title was convincingly won by Tom Bennett (Clere) in the Year 8 boys 1500m, he lead from start to finish whilst being pushed hard by his Andover team mate Alex Rudge (Testbourne) who doggedly tracked him but was unable to pass him. A fine one two with the rest of the field left in their wake. Dan Grinham (John Hanson) frustrated with getting his tactics wrong on the day in the Year 8 highly competitive 800m, should be very proud of the fact that he came away with a bronze in a race that could have gone to any of the top 3. All were delighted to receive their trophies as well as invitations to join the forthcoming County Squad training days.

Other notable performances came from

Shelby Baker (Rookwood) 4th 150m 21.7

Ellora Milsom (John Hanson) 4th 600m 1.59.2

Emily Woodhouse (John Hanson) 4th Discus 17.78

Sam Deery (John Hanson) 75m hurdles 15.0

Gemma Edey (Winton) 200m 30.8

Beth Lawrence, 100m 14.4

Jordan Brown (John Hanson) 100m 13.3

Millie Dobinson (John Hanson) 1000m 3.42.7

Tomos Hardiman (Rookwood) 600m 1.58.3

Luke Holman (John Hanson) 1.21m

Ian Pearce, Javelin 22.85m

Under 11s put in a shining performance – Quad kids

The 3rd Wessex league of the season was hosted by Andover AC, who is kindly sponsored by CK Buildings Contractors. The U11s all compete in the same 4 events with A and B string events, all designed to give them a chance to experience throwing, jumping, sprints and distance running.

The full team of fourteen athletes made up of nine boys and five girls excelled themselves, putting in a real team performance to beat the rest of competition; Team Kennet, Bournemouth, New Forest, Woking and Weymouth, taking first team position with a total combined score of 1389 points, a massive 134 points ahead of their nearest rivals, Team Kennet.

Matthew Chant continues to impress, taking first place in all 4 events in some style. Throwing the cricket ball 37.63m a personal best PB throw and new club record by 11cm, jumping 3.91m in the long jump, also a PB and a new club record by 13 cm, running 10.5 in the 75m sprint, just 0.1 off his PB and the club record which he already holds, and then competing in the 600m with a winning time of 1.57 – you’ve guessed it, a PB and club record knocking 4 seconds off the current record – a truly amazing performance. Will Henshaw also saw some pleasing results, throwing 36.41m to take 3rd place. This throw was a PB for Will. He also took 2nd place in the 75m with a time of 11.5 and achieved another PB in the 600m (2.11.8). The boys seemed to like the throwing events as Kieran Delaney threw 29.9m to come 4th.

Top performance for the girls came from Phoebe Dunbar. Phoebe took 1st place in the long jump jumping a PB of 3.66m and also in the 75m sprint with a time of 11.1. She followed this up with a 2nd place in the throwing event (rounder’s ball), throwing18.25m and ran 2.34.5 for the 600m.

Also gaining PBs, all in the long jump were; Florence Proctor 2.97m, Steven Horne 2.63m, Vicki Grinham 2.53m and Izzy Horner 2.46m. Florence also ran a terrific 600m race to finish with a time of 2.31 and she is still only 9 years old! James Hardiman a achieved a PB in the 75m (13.4) and so did Carl Bosworth with a throw of 28.37m (cricket ball)..

Also competing and gaining valuable points in all the events for the team were: Jamie Tarrent, Jack Deery, Edward Jones (competing for the first time) and Taryn Butland.

Next weekend the under 11s team will be in the Quad Kids final, being held at Tidworth.

Road Runners Round-up – you are as young you as you feel

Andover AC Road Runners, sponsored by local building firm CK Building Contractors have been very active over the past month, in, as you can imagine, all sorts of weather!

The Lordshill 10k with its flooded roads and mud tracks resembled more of a cross country race than a road race, but the conditions did not put two of the clubs more ‘seasoned’ competitors off. John Goulding carried on his winning ways by being the first veteran 70+ to cross the line in 47.50 (84th overall). A few minutes in front of John was Derek Jarvis in 44.50. Derek was 12th Vet50+ back (58th overall). 149 competitors completed the course.

John also competed in the D-Day 10k at Portsmouth where he was 3rd Vet70+ home in 47.34, very consistent timing. And Derek competed in the Summer Solstice 8k in the picturesque grounds of Moor Valley Country Park, coming 4th in his age group . This event was held in aid of the Wessex Autistic Society.

The five mile road race at Braishfield nr Romsey was run in the opposite of weather conditions – extreme heat. The all road and hilly course made it all the more humid and difficult. Malcolm Leatherdale finished in an excellent time of 36.49 and was the second placed Vet60+ over the line. Shelia Ridge also put in a courageous performance to finish the course in 51.30.

Competing a little closer to home in the Smannell Multi-terrain 10k, Shelia completed the course with fellow competitor and previous Chairman of the club Ian Oldacre. Both commented what a well organised and enjoyable course it was to take part in, finishing in 62.02 and 48.50 respectively. Well done Smannell for organising such a good event.

The biggest contingent of Andover road runners set off to the Ropley 10k, a large event with 446 competitors completing the race. The course involved two extreme inclines which, when combined with the returning rain, made the going tough. First Andover road runner home was Robin Kingston in a time of 42.02 (63rd overall). Next, Derek Jarvis in 44.38 (108th overall). Coming over the line in 175th, you’ve guessed it, John Goulding in 48.20, who was it that said you are as young as you feel? Ian Griffin was the club’s final competitor in 50.51 in 214th, all Andover AC’s runners crossing the line with over half the field still to complete the course.

South of England U20 & U23 Individual Track and Field Championships

Just three of Andover ACs athletes journeyed to Crystal Palace for the South of England U20 & U23 Individual Track and Field Championships. Phill Berntsen raced in the U20 mens 5000m. This was the first time Phill has raced over this distance, nearly double his normal distance, and in spite of being just seventeen he finished in 2nd place in a time of 15.27.4. This time currently places Phill 12th in the UK. Frankie Hanson competed in the U20 womens 100m hurdles, although she did not qualify for the finals she ran an excellent race knocking 0.6 seconds off her personal best to run 18.03. Her next target is to go below 18 seconds. In the U23s age group, Dave Awde competed in the 400m. Even though Dave did not make the finals he ran a solid time of 51.95.

U15s and U17s Southern Schools Inter-Counties Championships

Five Andover athletes gained Hampshire School selection for the U15s and U17s Southern Schools Inter-Counties Championships held at Bedford. This was the first time any of them had represented Hampshire Schools in the track and field events and it is fair to say that most found the experience a little nerve racking on the day. Gary Jones (Winton) was first to compete in his preferred event of the Hammer and also put in the best performance of the day. In spite of being bottom age, Gary threw a personal best of 29.61m to take 4th position in the A string event. This throw also broke the club record. Matthew Woodhouse (John Hanson) took part in the discus (A string) but was a little disappointed that he only managed to throw 30.39m, some 4m off his best, eventually taking 5th spot, frustratingly just 2m behind the winning throw.

All of the other competitors were on the track. Competing over the 100m, Claire Patterson (Clere) had a terrible start but managed to quickly pick up speed to run 13.1 and take 5th position (A race), which, given her start, was a good run. Adam Harwood (Testbourne) who is showing great promise, especially given the fact he has only been running for a few weeks, came 5th in the B race in a time of 56.0. Given the wind down the back straight this was also a fine run. Over the longer distance, Chris Berntsen (John Hanson) competed in the 800m A Race. Chris got the race wrong tactically right from the gun, starting much too slowly creating a gap between him and the rest of the field. However, he did recover some ground over the final 200m to take 4th place in a time of 2.11.1.

Southern Mens League

A combined Overton and Andover team went to Basingstoke to compete in the second meeting in the Southern Mens League Division 3 (West). The match was against Team Kennet, Oxford City and Basingstoke.

Depleted numbers meant that the competitors had to take on lots of disciplines in order to gain points for the team, ensuring that they covered the A and B strings across the 19 events.

Performance of the day went to Dave Awde who competed in no less than 7 events. Dave firstly tackled the 400m hurdles, where he came 3rd in a personal best (PB) time of 60.6. Twenty minutes later he ran in the 800m coming 2nd, and in between these two races he commenced the pole vault, eventually taking 3rd. He then moved on to the triple jump where he came 4th with a jump of 11.12m. Later in the day he competed in the 110m hurdles coming 3rd in 19.8 and rounded the day off by helping his team mates to 2nd place in the 4x100m (47.4) and 4x400m (3.43.8) relays!

Jeremy Reynolds, also competed in lots of events, starting his day off with the long jump, followed this with the high jump. He then threw 9.90m in shot and 21.55 in the discus and also joined Dave in the 110m hurdles – gaining valuable points for the team.

Gaining maximum points in two events were Keith Clark who came 1st in the 800m and 1500m B string events and James Folkes in100m and 200m. James was also part of the 4x100 relay team.

Also competing during the day were: James Whiteman who competed in four events, plus the relay, his best being a throw of 37.74m in the javelin. Competing in 3 events, Dave Bush. Two events, Richard Pritcher (plus both relays), Steve Payne and Phill Berntsen, and one apiece, Keith Vallis, Greig England, Ashley Berntsen and Dougie Brisco. Overall the team came third.

Hampshire Schools Athletic Report June 2007

The Hampshire Schools Track and Field Championships were held at Southampton this year, with hot temperatures and humid showers the elements for the athletes to contend with. The first two in each of the Junior and Intermediate races gaining automatic qualification to represent Hampshire in the Southern Counties Championships next weekend and with potential selection for the English Schools Championships (ES) all age groups to be held in July also up for grabs.

The athletes representing Andover Schools equipped themselves well, although sadly, once again Andover were the only district not to supply a loan of a district vest, so all had to compete in any plain blue or white top.

Automatic qualification places for the Southern Counties Championships were gained by:

On the track:

Claire Patterson (Clere) competed in the 100m Junior Girls (JG) race. Having coasted in first in her heat to ensure she had a good lane ranking for the final, Claire took the silver position in the final in a time of 13.5. Although outside the ES qualification time of 12.8, Claire has already achieved this earlier in the year, so she has a very good chance of selection for the English Schools Hampshire team.

Chris Berntsen (John Hanson) ran the most courageous race of his life in the Junior Boys (JB) 800m. Battling with the race favourite he ran the first 400m sub 60 seconds, eventually surrendering1st place in the last 150m. Chris came over the line in 2.09.dead, a PB of over 2 seconds and just 1 second outside the ES qualification time. Chris has knocked 5 seconds off last year’s time over the past 5 weeks and has one more chance next weekend to get the qualifying time.

Phill Berntsen, Peter Symonds, Winchester District. Although running for Winchester Schools, Phill lives in Andover and competes for Andover AC. Phill competed in the 3000m having just moved up to the Senior Mens age group. Taking to the front from the gun, Phill came out the easy winner to take the County title in a slow time by his standards of 8.55.4. However, he is still some way off the ES qualification time, where to date only 8 athletes in England have achieved it out of the 45 counties eligible to compete.

Field events:

Matthew Woodhouse (John Hanson) took 2nd place in the Junior Boys (JB) discus with a season’s best (SB) throw of 30.77m. Team mate Gary Jones (bottom age) took 3rd position with a throw of 28.89m and has also been confirmed as selected for his preferred event of the hammer.

Athletes achieving 3rd and 4th positions are on reserve for next week. These were:

JB: Jonathon Inglis (Testbourne) 3rd 100m 12.6, Adam Harwood (Testbourne) 3rd 400m 55.3. (confirmed as selected). Chris Adams (Winton) 3rd 800m 2.11.3 (PB), Tom Bennett (Clere) 4th 1500m 4.37.8 and J McMenemy 4th High Jump 1.66m. JG: Christie Woodford (John Hanson) 3rd 800m 2.32 (SB), Grace Patterson (Clere) 3rd 200m 28.5. Intermediate Boys: James Green (Testbourne) 3rd 200m 24.8. Intermediate Girls: Sophie Ramsey (Winton) 4th 300m 43.0 (PB), Danni Horner (John Hanson) 4th 75m Hurdles 12.8. Senior Girls: Louise Corcoran (Peter Symonds) 3rd 200m. Also competing on the day were: Alex Rudge, Ricky Taylor, Gemma Eday, Fiona James, Gabby Carter, Anne Stevens, Natasha Rogers and Claire Horne.

Petty Wood Support Andover’s Youth

Local firm Petty Wood, who are perhaps best known for their brand name Epicure, recognised the sterling efforts that Andover Athletic Club have played in encouraging Andover’s young people to get involved in the sport of athletics by presenting them with a cheque for £1,500 to sponsor its annual Young Athletes Meeting on Bank Holiday Monday 28^th May.

The cheque was presented to Club Chairman, Nick Woodford by Petty Wood’s Managing Director, Tony Noble. Also attending the presentation was local MP Sir George Young, who commented, ‘I am so pleased to see a local company demonstrating social responsibility by helping a local club in this way. I have been so impressed with the professional and dedicated way in which the Club helps to develop the athletes, none of which could happen without the commitment of the volunteers, plus support such as this from firms who take the time and money to help their community in such a valued manner.’

Commenting on their support, Tony Noble said, ‘We had been looking for a suitable way of putting something back into the local community and felt that the Athletics Club ticked all of the boxes. I had no idea how popular the club was until discussing its current activities and successes, Nick’s plans for the future and visiting the facilities here. They have such a wide range of ages and abilities that they cater for and have a strategic vision for the future of the Club which encompasses both success and inclusion, a very difficult balance to strike in sport. The Young Athletes Meeting provides a wonderful opportunity for Epicure to help encourage the youth of Andover to become or stay involved in a sport that caters for all levels of ability, which can only be a positive, enjoyable and therefore worthwhile initiative as we all look forward to the 2012 Olympics.’

Medals Galore for Andover athletes at Hampshire Championships

Twenty eight athletes competed in the Hampshire AA Track & Field Championship over the weekend in very unsettled and difficult conditions, not conducive to Personal Bests (PBs). This was one of the one of the largest contingents Andover AC, who are sponsored by CK Building Contractors, has had at this event. And, it was their most successful in living memory with the eight of athletes returning home with twelve medals between them, three with Hampshire Championship titles.

Matthew Woodhouse was the first to win gold in the U15 boys dscus with a throw of 29.52m, having earlier secured a silver medal in the shot putt with a throw of 10.30m. Gary Jones, who has just stepped up to the under 15s age group this year, also had a fine throw of 27.57m to take second place behind Matthew in the discus, and followed this up with a gold in the hammer the following day. Gary’s throw of 25.64m was over 5m ahead of his nearest rival and also broke the club record - something he does with regularity. Phill Berntsen, who also moved up to an older age group this year, competed in the U20 mens 3000m, where he took the silver medal in 9:06.46 on the Saturday and then followed this up with Andover’s 3rd gold of the Championships with a win in the 1500m on the Sunday, recording 4:06.46.

Picking up bronze medals were: Claire Paterson who came home with two bronze medals, one in the U15 girls 100m recording 12.91 and also in the 200m where she recorded 27.05. Daniel Settle threw a PB in the U13 boys javelin throwing 24.61m. Daniel also came 4th in the shot putt. Daniel Jones had another tremendous run in the U13 boys 800m recording a time of 2:34.87, narrowly missing out on the silver by less than a second. Hurdler Sam Deery was very proud of his achievement in the U15 boys 80m hurdles. It took him a couple of hurdles to get in to his stride, but once he got going he flew over the hurdles to take the bronze medal in a time of 16. 51. Lauren Marlow missed out on the bronze medal by just 2cm in the U13 girls long jump with a jump of 3.86m.

Andover Athletics Club has both strength and depth in the middle distance disciplines and this was demonstrated by all four competitors qualifying for the U15 boys 800m final. Chris Berntsen led the Andover contingent home in the bronze medal position in a time of 2:15.95, with Chris Adams taking 4th (2:17.06), and Tom Bennett and Daniel Grinham, both bottom age, achieving PBs and taking 5th (2:17.61) and 7th (2:21.43) respectively. Also achieving PBs were: Danielle Horner 13.05 U15 girls 75m Hurdles (4th). Louise Corcoran 26.91 U20 womens 200m (4th) and Dave Awed 51.43 400m senior mens (5th).

All of the medallists will be considered for Hampshire selection at future inter-counties matches to be held during the summer.

Four athletes had also recently competed at the Hampshire Multi Events Championships – all of them bringing medals back. Silver medallists were: Dave Awde (senior mens) 2444 points, James Folkes U20 mens 1969 points, Daniel Settle U13 boys 610 points and taking the bronze medal in the U20 womens event, Emma Brown with 1464 points.

Young ones enjoy their day at Tidworth

Ten under 11s competed at the first Wessex league match held at Tidworth recently, seven of them experiencing their first taste of competition.

In order to encourage a variety of skills and abilities, each athlete has to compete in four events; ball throw, long jump, 600m and 75m. The outstanding performance of the day was Jack Deery. Jack achieved a personal best (PB) in all 4 events: Ball throw 24.36m, long jump 3.39m, 600m 2.20.9 and 75m 12.5. Phoebe Dunbar also achieved a fine set of performances: Ball throw 22.45m, long lump 3.17m, 600m 2.22.8 and 75m 11.9.

Best Andover performance of the day for each event was: Harry Fitztpatrick, who also ran the fastest 600m of his life to record 2.10.7, Joseph Bolton who threw the ball the furthest recording 24.55m, Jack’s jump was also the longest jump of the day for the Andover athletes and Phoebe’s 75m performance the fastest. Most importantly, all the kids had great fun, enjoying the opportunity to take part in so many different disciplines. Overall a great result which saw the under 11s team come out second overall.

Full results Under 11s

BT LJ 600m 75m

Phoebe Dunbar 22.45 3.17 2.22.8 11.9

Florence Proctor 12.79 2.41 2.33.1 14.1

Taryn Butland 13.24 3.07 2.32.4 12.8

Ella Symons 17.21 2.65 2.32.6 13.3

Harry Fitzpatrick 11.78 2.77 2.10.7 PB 13.9

Jack Deery 24.36 PB 3.39 PB 2.20.9 PB 12.5 PB

Joseph Bolton 24.55 2.17 2.38.6 14.4

Jamie Tarrant 22.07 1.99 2.12.5 12.4

Stephen Horne 20.27 2.58 2.26.0 12.3

Joseph Marshall 17.29 2.95 2.13.6 12.7

Tidworth 22/04/07 – Wessex League

Andover Athletic Club travelled to Tidworth for the first Wessex League match of the season with many new comers to the team. Coaches and parents were anxious and apprehensive with so many new ones to the event, but their fears were soon allayed with some stunning performances.

The under 13s girls day started with the 70m hurdles with Shelby Baker being a hot favourite to win. She had the race won until the very last hurdle when she hit it hard and crashed down, but she still picked herself up to finish second. Shelby then made a dash back to the long jump competition with the adrenaline still flowing from her fall, she jumped a personal best of 4.35m which won the event and also placed her second in the South East rankings. Also in the long jump Lauren Marlow surprised herself with massive pb of 4.05m. Hermione Toomey after a slow start to her 1200m race picked up the pace to win the event with ease, cheered on by her family. The boys with key members of the team missing all rallied round to cover as many events as possible. Dan Settle continued his fine season of personal bests in the throwing events and Dan Jones has a fine series of long jumps finishing with a pb of 3.65m.

Probably the strongest under 15 girls team the club has had for many years joined forces and covered events they normally dislike. The highlight of the team was Grace Patterson claiming a new Club Record with 46.0secs in the 300m. Debutants Flora Longsley-Cook and Bethany Lawrence had an exciting day, they never stopped smiling, coming away with 4 personal bests between them. Not to be outdone by the girls the under 15 boys put in faultless performances, finishing with the best team performance of the day, coming second overall. It was such a good team performance it would be unfair to pick out individual performances as they all did above and beyond what was expected of them. This team could go a long way.

Sophie Ramsey having just moved up an age group to the under 17s is now producing in races what we have seen in training. We knew it was only a matter of time. Her best result was a personal best of 43.5 in the 300m.

London Marathon

A weekend of hot sunshine is normally embraced by all, but when you have 26.2 miles to run around the streets of London, you would be forgiven for wishing for a refreshing breeze and even a bit of rain.

Seven Andover AC athletes, who are sponsored by CK Building Contractors,  took part in the London Marathon, six in the full race and one in the mini marathon.

Phill Berntsen was representing Hampshire in the U18s mini marathon ran over a fast and flat 2.65 miles from Southwark Bridge to the Mall. After a disastrous start that saw the whole Hampshire team at the back of the field of over 230 runners, Phill fought his way through the masses eventually coming in 13th position (first Hampshire back) in a time of 13:13.

In the main event, Dougie Briscoe had a fantastic run. Having gone through the half way point at 1hr 20:30 he knew he was on f or a good time. Crossing the line in a new club record 2hrs 49:10, Dougie was the 332nd person to cross the line out of over 36,000 runners and was the 8th M50 to finish. Although pleased with his time, it is a few minutes off his best ever time but felt that given the very hot running conditions it was a pleasing result.

Next to finish in a time of 3hrs 59:48 was Matt Lane, placed 1525 M35 (7656 overall). Matt did very well to finish, collapsing immediately after the race and ending up in the medical tent. He still managed to get in for training on Monday evening, good job it was only to have a group picture taken!

The remaining four competitors crossed the line in quick succession. David Andrews 4hrs 35:15 (13659), Ian Griffin 4hrs 42:39, placed 545 M55 (14995 overall), Our only female competitor, Claire Webb, who was raising money for the Enham Trust completed the course in 4hrs 47:44 to come 16500 place overall (3135 W30), and the final Andover AC competitor, Matthew Whitehouse finished in 21662 position in 4hrs 52:54.

All of the athletes said that the atmosphere this year was absolutely brilliant – the sunshine brought the crowds, so it did have a silver lining.

Radley Track & Field

A team of Andover AC athletes, who are sponsored by CK Building Contractors, travelled to Abingdon for their first Track and Field event of the season. Having spent many months away from the competition arena the first event is normally just a time to test the water again and see how well their winter training has been going. However, this band of athletes were determined not to let the lack of competitions affect their accomplishments and set about producing many personal bests performances as well as coming away with plenty of podium finishes.

Newcomer Matt Allen (U17M) coped with the pressure of competing with composure, completing a fine series of throws in the javelin to win the event with a throw of 28.20m. Also new to this event was U13 girl Jessica Allison who was delighted with her third placing 5.57m.

The throwers had an exceptional day all benefiting from a full winters coaching from Stuart Jones. Matthew Woodhouse (Woody) and Gary Jones battled each other all day, Woody producing a life time best (PB) of 9.61M (PB) 2^nd in the shot putt to gain 2^nd place as well as winning the discus with a throw of 26.75M. Gary’s best result came in the hammer where he smashed the club record with a throw of 22.98M. Bottom age, Gary also came 2^nd in the discus with a throw of 23.45M. Dan Settle also had a tremendous day taking first place in both the shot 5.84M (PB) and in the discus 14.78M also a PB. He also achieved 2^nd place in the Javelin (17.45M).

Due to a technical error (not putting out enough hurdles) Danni Horner having already run a tremendous 75metre hurdle race where she came first, was faced with daunting task of a rerun. Giving her all once again for second time around - three athletes crossed the line at the same time and she was adjudged to have come 2^nd, a fantastic effort under the circumstances.

Other fine performances came from Chris Adams, Christie Woodford, Dan Jones, Dan Grinham, Victoria Grinham, Ellie Woodford, Mollie Smith, Millie Dobinson, Richard Pitcher and Louise Corcoran; this was a promising start for the forthcoming season.

Sarah Holiday and Phill Berntsen competed in the cross country event at the British Colleges Sport Championships over the weekend held at Loughborough, both representing the Southeast Region and Peter Symonds college. Despite their young ages both performed extremely well. Sarah was first up. After a steady start, she powered through the field to come home in 11^th place, helping her team to take the gold medal for the team event. Phill also performed well in a race that contained some very high calibre GB athletes. Phill stayed with the pace for the first half of the race eventually taking 6^th place overall.

Why not come and see some of Andover ACs athletes. They will be at the Get Active Sports Fair on 28^th April, Vigo Road Park, visit www.sportandover.org.uk

Hampshire XC League - Final Results

CK Building Contractors sponsored Andover AC competed at the final race of Hampshire Cross Country League which was held over the weekend at Camford Park nr Poole. The event, which includes athletic clubs from Hampshire, Dorset, Berkshire and Sussex was the last in the five match series.

Top positions went to Dougie Brisco who took top honors in the Male 50+ category. Dougie consolidated his position at the top of the leader board by finishing the 9k race in 33:16 well over 1 minute ahead of the next 50M+ competitor. Phill Bertnsen (U17M) also took gold, winning the 6k race in 19:32 to take the title and gaining maximum points over the series. Under 13 boy Tom Bennett also medaled. Despite recovering from a cold Tom came 8^th in the 3k race in a time of 11:01. This performance ensured that Tom took 5^th position over the series. All three were presented with their awards by 1983 London Marathon winner, Mike Grafton.

Also competing in the U13 boys race were Alex Rudge, Dan Grinham, Roland Barter and Francis Proctor. Alex, who has not been competing for very long, continued to show what a great talent he is. Along with Tom, Alex took up the pace in the leading pack for much of the race, eventually finishing in a superb 3^rd position in a time of 10:53. Alex and Tom were followed by Dan in 26^th place (11:42), Roland 45^th in 12:40 and Francis 55^th in 14:19. This sterling team performance also ensured that the Andover U13 boys team took 2nd position on the day and finished in 5^th position overall.

The U15 boys were thin on the ground due to illness with Chris Adams recovering from an ankle injury the only competitor. Chris had his customary fast start and despite his lack of training had his best finish of the series in 30^th place in a time of 16:07. Also having his best finish of the series was U17M Andrew Fletcher. Andrew came 22^nd in the 6k race in a time of 25:58.

Competing for the fairer sex was: Gaby Carter (U17 G) Ellora Milsom (U13G) and Shelia Ridge (Vet). Yet another fine performance from Gaby also saw her take her best position of the series. Gaby pushed herself hard, battling for additional places to come 8^th in a time of 17:56. Ellora started very steadily at the beginning of the U13 girls 3k race but had picked up the pace considerably by the half way point to finish 36^th in 13:37. Shelia, in her first Hampshire League cross country ran a solid race, in what was by this point in the day, very raining conditions. Shelia completed the 6k course in 37:46 to come 48^th.

Showing true teamwork - the road runners came to the rescue in the Senior Mens race ensuring they had a full team entered for the final race of the league. Despite his years, Dougie was first back followed closely by Paul Phillips, who in spite of illness, raced for the all important team points to come 52nd in 34:05 and James Coney 105th in 37:24. Also competing in his first Hampshire League, Kelvin Mason 43:01 (39^th 50M+) and last Andover man back, but by no means least, Andover ACs previous Chairman Ian Oldacre, who was competing in the Hampshire’s for the first time in 30 years! Ian was 46^th 50M+ to finish in a time of 47:07 and crucially, ensured that the team consolidated their team position to take 7^th place in Division 2 ensuring that they stayed well out of the relegation zone of 9^th and 10^th places.

South of England Masters XC Championships

Dougie Briscoe’s fine performance this weekend was on the back of a terrific performance at the South of England Masters XC Championships which were held at Mad Bess Woods, Ruislip in Middlesex an event specifically for the UK Veterans (40+).

Dougie competed in the Male 50+ race. In near perfect running conditions, the 165 competitors raced the 10k over 3 laps on well defined tracks through the woods, which also involved two tough hills. Dougie started at a very fast pace and going in to the woods for the first time was in 10th position. Having settled in to his running speed he was in 15th by the end of the first lap. Over the next two laps Dougie fought hard to maintain his place and to stay in front of his Hampshire XC League rival Ian Howard from Fleet AC. And, following a bit of cat and mouse, ensured he finished ahead of him in a very creditable 14th place in a time of 37:32.

Seven athletes from CK Buildings sponsored Andover Athletics Club recently traveled to the new £16 million athletics facility at Lee Valley Park, near Enfield, to take part in the South of England Indoor Championships. Lee Valley has the first 200m indoor track to built in the South of England and forms part of the of the 2012 Olympic training facilities in the lead up to the games.

Despite being very early in the indoor season the town’s sprinters took to the boards and produced numerous indoor personal bests (PBs). Performance of the day went to U15G Clare Patterson. A relative newcomer to the club, Clare ran a club record of 8.50 to narrowly miss the final by 0.02 of a second. Twin sister Grace Patterson competed in the 200m. Grace ran an indoor PB of 29.07 in her heat qualifying for the semi final where she ran 29.16. This was the first indoor competition for both girls. Other results were: James Folkes (U20M) 400m heat, 53.29 (Indoor PB). Richard Pitcher (U20M) 200m heat 25.1 (Indoor PB). Clare Horne (U17W) 300m heat 48.2 (Indoor PB). Emma Brown (U20W) 200m heat 29.92.

Andover AC Chairman Nick Woodford presented a £150 cheque from the Ron Pickering Memorial Fund to distance runner Phill Berntsen during a training session this week. Phill was awarded the funding grant following his tremendous achievements during 2006.

It is the 10^th anniversary of memorial fund which was set up by Ron Pickering’s wife, Jean following the sports commentator’s death in 1991. This year the fund selected 195 athletes of all ages throughout the UK for their funding awards. Over the past 10 years the fund has awarded more than £350,000 to around 700 athletes and coaches with the aim of supporting the British Isles most talented young athletes.

South of England Championships at Holkham

Just three Andover athletes, Sarah Holliday, and Phill and Chris Berntsen, made the 220 mile 5 hour Friday night journey to the South of England Championships, which were held on the far Northfolk coast at Holkham Hall, Holkham. A truly beautiful setting, the course was set in the grounds of the National Trust country estate amidst the rolling hills of the deer park.

Phill took up the mantel in the U17s mens 6,000m race and started conservatively with a race plan to sit at the back of the leading pack for the first half of the race. All was going reasonably to plan until the 2k point when he turned his ankle in the wooded area and dropped back a little. In spite of the set back he continued to fight for a top place, eventually taking a very creditable 6th place out of the 85 finishers in a time of 18:15, although his personal target was to come in the top three.

Sarah competed in the U20 womens 5000m race, her target was top 30. Sarah attacked the beautiful but challenging course with absolute determination. Continuously improving her performances, Sarah exceeded her goal by taking 22^nd position in a time of 21:18.

The long journey took its toll on all of the athletes. Chris having warmed up and taken his place on the start line, decided to pull out from the U15 boys race as he felt the beginnings of a groin strain so as not to risk major damage until the extent of the injury had been established. The decision, although disappointing, proved the right one as local sports therapist, Danny Flitter, was able to sort Chris out on the Sunday morning.

By contrast, eight Andover road racers made the short trip to Romsey to compete in their annual 5 mile road race, on a very fast course. Dougie Brisco continued his fine form, ahead of the Masters Cross Country Championships, to finish 21^st overall and 1^st in his class, in 28.33 minutes. Next home was Andover’s first woman, Emma Dunham 17^th senior woman overall (34:07), who ran really well despite feeling the cold. A middle field Andover battle was taking place between Paul Bainbridge, Kelvin Mason, Mike McGuire and Ian Oldacre, the latter making a welcome return from injury. Pre race banter from Mike, who is more normally seen competing over marathon distances, saw him lay down the gauntlet of a sprint challenge to his fellow athletes.

Undaunted, Paul led home the quartet 4^th over 55 (35:44), closely followed by Kelvin 5^th (36:19) over 55, who in turn just held off Mike 25^th over 45 (36:28) and Ian 6^th over 55 (36:48). Next home was a fast finishing John Goulding trying very hard to catch a known rival ending up only 9 seconds behind him in a deserved 3^rd over 70 position (39:07). Andover’s other female runner was Sheila Ridge. Shelia was delighted to have beaten her personal target of 45 minutes finishing 12^th in her age category (44:43). Andover AC are kindly sponsored by CK Building Contractors

An individual silver medal, a team bronze and six athletes gaining Hampshire selection for the Southern Inter-Counties Championships was the amazing haul for Andover's young athletes at the Hampshire Schools Championships held in the Isle of Wight. The course involved some incredibly tight hairpin bends that wove there way backwards and forwards across very boggy, waterlogged playing fields. Although the rain held off, freezing cold winds made the course all the more challenging.

The Junior boys race (under 15's) had the biggest field of the day with 107 competitors, seven of them representing the District of Andover. As always, John Hanson School featured prominently with: Chris Berntsen, Chris Bull and Daniel Grinham. The Clere: Tom Bennett and Jake Sellwood. Alex Rudge (Testbourne) and Chris Adams (Test Valley). All but Berntsen and Adams were bottom age so could easily have been intimidated by the strength of the field. But, from the gun, all the boys attacked the race with dogged determination and incredible self belief.

After a fast start, both Berntsen and Bennett were with the leading pack. The course involved a long hill climb which split the field, with Berntsen in 6th and Bennett in 8th. Bennett set about chasing his team mate down and, with an exciting cat and mouse chase, closed the gap in the best race of his short career so far to take 6th place, with Berntsen just behind in 7th. Alex Rudge, who in spite of tripping on the starters tape at the beginning of the race, and slipping over during the race, thundered around the course to take 11th place. With three back and with six to count for the team all eyes and voices turned to the remaining four boys.

Jake Sellwood and Dan Grinham were next in, both running brilliantly to take 26th and 29th place respectively, with Chris Bull also putting in his best performance this season to take 50th place. An outstanding team performance - they were rewarded with a team bronze. Sadly, Chris Adams, who was also aiming for Hampshire selection, had to retire due to an injury picked up on the Friday.

Gaby Carter (Test Valley) competed in the Intermediate girls race (under 17's). Gaby started well and maintained 13th position for two thirds of the race. The gruelling conditions took their toll, but Gaby battled to the end and was rewarded with 16th position.

Christie Woodford (John Hanson) was Andover's only competitor in the Junior girls race. Christie fought really hard, just missing out on selection to take 17th place. Andrew Fletcher (John Hanson) was our only representative in the Intermediate boys race. Andrew continues to improve taking 42nd place, straight on the back of 6th place junior male finish at the Stubbington 10k the previous week.

Although running for Winchester and Eastleigh as they both attend Peter Symonds College, Andover athletes Phill Berntsen and Sarah Holliday were competing in the Senior (under 20) races. Sarah was in the penultimate race of the day, and running conditions had really started to deteriorate. Having spoken after the race Sarah said: 'It was the hardest race of my life.' She was very pleased to have taken 7th place.

Last up was Phill Berntsen. Despite being bottom age, Phill took up the pace early and at the two thirds point looked very comfortable in 1st place. However, going around one of the hairpin bends, which were by now hazardous, he slipped and injured his side. Although he picked himself up and continued to compete, he was unable to run at his previous speed. In spite of this set back he still came 2nd to take the silver medal although was a little disappointed at his misfortune. He did however fare better than the leader of the senior womens' race, International Steph Twell, who also came a cropper on the same corner and was sadly unable to continue.

Bennett, Berntsen (C), Rudge, Carter, Holliday and Berntsen (P), who all compete for Andover AC, were selected for the Hampshire team to compete in the Southern Inter-Counties match to be held at Bexhill in February.

Hampshire League Cross Country - Reading

The penultimate Hampshire League cross country match of the season was held at Reading's Prospect Park. A flat course with just one killer hill was the format of the day, making it a fairly fast course for all of the runners. Andover AC, who is sponsored by CK Building Contractors, had the smallest team turnout so far with just 14 competing over the eight races.

Despite the reduced numbers, the Andover club saw some of the best performances of the league match's so far. Tom Bennett, Dan Grinham, Daniel Jones and Roland Barter improved their overall team positioning with their individual performances in the U13 boys race, moving from 6th to 5th place in the league table. Tom Bennett continues to excel, taking 2nd place in a brilliant time of 10:53. This fine performance places him in 4th position overall with just one match to go. Tom was followed by Dan Grinham in 17th also achieving his best finishing position of the series in 11:47. Daniel Jones came 28th (12:13) and Roland Barter 34th (12.33) to ensure the team ascended the table. In the U13 girls race - Ellora Milsom came 32nd in a time of 11:52

Andover's U15 boys competitors were: Chris Berntsen, who battled hard in spite of a flu bug but could only manage 26th in a time of 14:49. Chris dropped two places down the league table to 11th place overall. Chris Adams came 34th (15:15). Chris consolidated his position to maintain 32nd place overall. Finally, Bradley Alland (61st) in a time of 21:04.

Phill Berntsen cemented his position at the top of the U17 mens table with another 1st in a time of 17:59. In spite of there being one match to go, Phill's win means that he can not be beaten for overall Championship title. Gaby Carter competed in the U17 womens race. Gaby had a superb performance, her best of the season, to finish in 7th place in a time of 17:32.

Last up were the senior men: Normally a big event for the club, just 4 competitors were able to compete, sadly one short of a full team. Dougie Brisco was the first Andover competitor back in 43rd place (33:54). Dougie consolidated his Veteran's positioning. He was 7th Vet to finish the race, s now placed 8th in the Veteran league rankings and has the highest overall M50+ league positioning. Kearon Hooley came next in a time of 35:33. (72nd). Kearon was 13th U20 male back. Andover coach James Coney also had his best performance of the year to come 105th (37:06). Fourth man home was seasoned competitor Matt Lane who came 151st (41:56). The final race of the series is next month at Canford Park, Wimborne.

Hampshire Cross Country Championships - Basingstoke

Andover won two individual gold medals and one team bronze at the Hampshire Championships, which were held in appalling weather conditions at Basingstoke's War Memorial Park over the weekend. Four of the athletes also gained Hampshire selection to compete at the UK Inter-Counties to be held in Nottingham in March.

Phill Berntsen (U17M) and Dougie Brisco (M50) took their individual races by storm, both winning the gold medal. Phill took up the pace over the 6525m course early on and by the half way mark had already taken a 100m lead over the second placed runner, Aldershot's Chris Bounds. From then on in Phill cruised to a commanding lead - winning in a time of 24:50, some 26 seconds ahead of his nearest competitor. Also competing in the U17 race was Andrew Fletcher who was inadvertently sent on additional lap of the course before finishing in 40:23 (33rd).

Dougie Brisco, along with nine other athletes, competed in the Senior Mens and Vets 11750m combined race which fielded nearly 200 competitors. Seasoned competitor Dougie Brisco was the first M50 back, 46 seconds ahead of second placed M50, in a time of 51:14. Just ahead of Dougie was Andover's fasted man over the distance, Paul Phillips who came in 32nd senior man (49:54). Paul and Dougie were followed by team mates: Kearon Hooley 45th (52:42), Dave Awde 58th (56:06), James Coney 72nd (59:45), James Whiteman 76th (61: 01), Kelvin Mason 13th M55 (64:00), John Goulding 7th M60 in a time of 73:14, which is no mean feat as John is in his seventies, and Gavin Whatley 84th (75:12). Matt Lane also started the race having already competed in a 10k that morning! However, the awful running conditions 'did for him' and he was unable to complete the course.

Yet again the U13s boys team took the team performance of the day. Tom Bennett (4th), Alex Rudge (5th), Daniel Grinham (19th), and Daniel Jones (22nd), along with Roland Barter (26th) and Francis Proctor (33rd). Tom, Alex and the two Daniels won the team bronze medal, narrowly missing out on the silver medal by just one point. Tom and Alex stayed with a very fast leading pace over the 3075m course, eventually finishing in 12:18 and 12:22 respectively, just a few seconds behind the individual medal positions.

Chris Adams had an incredible start in the U15 boys race - bravely taking to front where he stayed for the first half of the race. The fast pace then started to tell on Chris and although he continued to keep in contact with the lead pack for the next quarter of the race he was unable to hold on to a top 8 (Hampshire selection) place, eventually finishing in 15th place in a time of 17:56. Joining Chris in the race was team mate Chris Bull who battled hard to come 48th in 23:17.

Five of the fairer sex competed during the day. Sarah Holliday excelled in the U20 womens 6675m race, continuing her improving form to achieve one of her seasons goals to gain selection for the Nationals in Nottingham, coming 6th in a time of 30:12. Competing in the U13 girls 3075m race were Elloria Milsom and Millie Dobinson. Elloria battled hard against the elements to come 37th (16:07). Despite feeling unwell all week, Millie insisted on starting the race and in spite of a brave effort was unable to complete the course.

Having moved up to the U15 girls age group this year Christie Woodford understandably felt a little apprehensive before the 4525m race. However, right from the gun Christie showed both spirit and determination, having an excellent run to come 17th in a time of 21:06. Andover's competitor in the U17 womens race was Gabbie Carter. Gabbie continues to improve finishing the 6150m course in 32:04, also taking 17th place.

As a result of the above performances, Phill, Tom, Alex and Sarah have all been selected to represent Hampshire at the Nationals in Nottingham.

The Andover Athletic Club team sponsored by CK Building Contractors travelled to a muddy, hilly cross country course around the scenic Devizes Castle for the latest round of the Wessex Cross Country League. First off where the Under 11s who ran a mixed race, the first Andover runner Soloman Lane came home in a very strong 3rd place improving on his previous outing. The girls were led home by Jessica Allison in 9th, bravely followed by Ellie Woodford in 11th who ran 95% of the race carrying her shoe which had been sucked off by the mud, not many runners would have carried on to the finish in these circumstances.

The Under 13 boys continue to impress the Andover supporters with their team spirit and all round effort. Tom Bennett led them home in 2nd place despite falling face first into the mud which enabled his rival to pull out enough of a lead to hold Tom off at the finish. Daniel Jones finished in 8th place, Roland Barter 12th, James Pitt 14th and Francis Proctor 16th, this first class team racing has got to give them a shout with the overall team title at the end of the season.

Under 15 girls saw Christie Woodford finishing with a turn of speed which pulled her up to 13th place at the finish and this although feeling under the weather all week, showing great determination. Clare Horne, a track sprinter by choice, turned out for her first cross country event of the season in the Under 17 category. She tackled course with much vigour and fortitude showing what an all round athlete she is developing into. Clare dug in and surprised a lot of people, including herself, with a 16th placing.

Senior Man Dougie Brisco found the course very challenging as he was in the last race of the day when the mud was well and truly churned up, making life very hard for all the runners. Rising to the occasion Dougie fought strongly up the hills and through the rivers for a fantastic 17th overall placing.

The athlete who wore the biggest smile throughout their race was Senior Lady Jackie Jones who likened the course to a bout of mud wrestling! It was only her smile that enabled the supporters to recognise her in the finishing funnel as she had more dirt on her than was left on the course. This really was an energy sapping day for all competitors and Jackie’s 28th finishing position gained the biggest cheer of the day from the Andover Team and their supporters.

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