As Cardiff half rapidly approaches, we say goodbye to the summer and running in the park and hello to winter routes. As the seasons change it takes a while for us to adapt to the different routes and each year, we make changes to these reflecting on the state of the paths etc. We are always open to ideas and if anyone has any issues with routes then please let us know. Now is the time to get those lights out and make sure they are charged up. Reflective clothing is beneficial on dark nights as we need to see and be seen.
Welsh Athletics are doing another “Own The night” campaign during October so look at their website to see how you can get involved. We often re-post on Facebook so if you use this forum then please read the info. They are also doing an online seminar on Speaking Out which might be worth looking at. Also keep an eye out for any additional events that are organised in line with this campaign.
The Cross-Country season starts again on the 10th October and Andrew will be keeping everyone on their toes. Can anyone match Colin’s record of completing all the events in one season? Is anyone up for the challenge? I am sure Colin will be on hand to give you some tips. Don’t forget the Feb event will be taking place at our very own Trelai Park so a great opportunity to give it a go or just come and see how it all works.
Our members have enjoyed a variety of races over the last 3 months ranging from various trail runs and marathons, near and far with still more in the calendar. Marathon Eryri is at the end of the month and has always been a firm favourite with a lot of our members. A challenging event and the weather can be very grim but on a good day the views are stunning. Maybe something to think about for next year. We have had some real jet setters this summer and have enjoyed reading the race reports and seeing photos.
We continue to represent the club at various Parkruns and always look forward to the weekly photos and reports. David has been keeping us updated on the monthly stats which makes interesting reading. The various challenges are good fun and I for one and keen to get some more flags over the next year. There is always the challenge to do one that no one else in Club has done so Paul C and Neil D we are all hot on your tails!
As a club we are no stranger to injuries and hope these will right themselves over time. The darker nights yet again prove a challenge for those returning from injury so daytime running can be a real boost so if anyone needs a buddy during this time then please post on the messages and I am sure we have some willing volunteers especially from our retirees.
The Winter Orienteering Series has started with the first event being held in and around Fairwater. These are generally held on a Wednesday evening so not ideal as it’s a club night but are only once a month and such good fun. Keep a look out for these on the messages.
Run up to Christmas is back and we will again be participating in this challenge. Last year we had a phenomenal number of miles so let’s see if we can exceed that this year. Don’t forget walking is included in the total. You can sign up a family member to our team too and that’s a good way of getting the family out doing more exercise.
Coming up:
October –
- Parkrun is the go to Saturday morning event and we have heard about some interesting events which continues to spark our interest.
- Cardiff Half – 4th October – fantastic support by the people of Cardiff and a great local run.
- Cross Country – Pembrey – 10th
- Cardiff Taff Trail Half Marathon – 18th
- Winter Map Run series – 21st Heath
- Severn Bridge Night Race – Halloween Theme – 29th
November –
- Richard Burton 10k – part of the SW champs – 1st
- Cross Country – Llandaff Fields – 8th
- Severn Bridge Night Race- 19th
- Winter Map Run series – 25th Rhiwbina
- Machen Trail Races (Half and full) -28th
December –
- Run up to Christmas – Yes it’s back! 1st – 25th and plenty of opportunities to get the miles in.
- Cross Country – Blaise Castle -5th
- Festive 10k – 13th
- Winter Map Run series – 16th Taff’s Well
- Severn Bridge Night Race – 17th
As well as all this we have our weekly runs as follows:
- Monday night – an out and back session lasting 40 minutes. We usually start at the Cathedral Green but if there are any dates where we need to relocate, they will be posted on Spond. Now with the Christmas season approaching there are a few events on at the Cathedral so on these days we will be starting from Danescourt so please check on Spond when signing up.
- Tuesday skills session – either hills or effort and it’s your session so you work at your pace. Why not try it and learn some new skills and get some tips. Pick your coaches brains for ideas and help. Remember the coaches (Ben and Sally) are here to help you.
- Wednesday social run – three distances on offer (5k, 5m, and 7m).
- We aim to get all the weekly runs posted up on Spond by 8pm on a Sunday night so you know what is going on and can plan your week.
If you have any favourite routes please let us know. We are working on some new routes but need time to reccy and risk assess them so watch this space over the winter.
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