A friendly running club based in Cirencester!

RSE Club Report – What’s the Story, Marathon Glory!

South Downs Way 50

Following the South Downs National Way trail, this 50 mile race rewards runners with awe inspiring views north across the Weald and the coast/ English Channel. The course starts in Worthing and finishes in Eastbourne, following chalk footpaths and bridleways to points such as Truleigh Hill, Devil’s Dyke, Ditchling Beacon, and Greenwich Meridian.

A huge well done to Sarah Reynolds who completed the challenge in 10:21:55!

Blessed with sunshine and a strong tailwind, I made my way up and down the South Downs Way from Worthing to Eastbourne. Great check points, friendly marshals and a fab support team (thanks Katy and Matt!) made this a fun day (painful too...)
Sarah Reynolds

Manchester Marathon

Known for its famously flat route, Manchester Marathon is the UK’s second largest marathon draws participants from across the world. The Mancunian support along the course is second to none, and the course boasts some iconic music to keep runners going.

Well done to the RSE club members who took on the challenge!

  • Nia Glover – 3:25:05
  • Elliot Gardiner – 4:06:34
  • Phil Newman – 4:12:38
  • Alan Powderhill – 4:15:43 – New PB!
  • Leah Brown
  • Paul Robertson
A very good day for me achieving a 10 minute marathon PB! Brilliant to run with some great RSE runners. A good course with really friendly crowds. Everyone ran so well, and so pleased all the training paid off.
Alan Powderhill
During mile 24 of the London Marathon last year, I said to myself I’m never doing another full marathon again, but yet after not hitting the goal I wanted, I signed up to the Manchester Marathon the following day 😅After what seemed like a very long winter training schedule (but a more sensible & relaxed approach to my plan) it was time for my second marathon. The atmosphere, live music and support from a very friendly crowd was amazing and it all spurred me on to stick to my pacing plan and achieve a new PB by 9 mins! 🦾 I’m so pleased with my overall pacing improvement since last year which shows all the hard work and training pays off! 🤩🏅 I’m thankful to everyone for all their support throughout my training plan; my family, friends, everyone at RSE & coach David Witnall, the Manchester Marathon training gang Alan Powderhill Paul Robertson Leah Brown Nia Glover Phil Newman Now the question is 3rd marathon?…sub 4 target?
Elliot Gardiner
Really good race with lots of support. Robbo, Al, Leah and myself ran together for the bulk of the race. Split up toward the end with Leah and myself leading the way but a few cramps for Leah slowed us to a walk around the 25 mile mark but picked up again for a good finish to find a very pale Elliot at the finish line - ideal conditions and a good flat course.
Phil Newman
This was my first marathon and it totally surpassed all expectations, the crowds were brilliant throughout and the buzz around the race was incredible. I didn’t expect to find the race so much fun! The messages of support for us all from the club were amazing and I’m so grateful for all of the help and guidance throughout the training, it really reinforced just how wonderful RSE is!
Nia Glover

Limassol Marathon

The officail race of Cyprus, this beautiful race follows the Mediterranean coastline. Starting in the centre Limassol, runners head out along the beachfront to the ruins of the ancient Royal city of Amathus, before running back to the city centre. The route boasts spectacular views and a fast, flat course, as well as a friendly and celebratory atmosphere.

Congratulations to Lesley Hinsley who completed the race in 4:33:29!

Well I can honestly say, that was the hardest race I have ever done. It was 27°c, sun shining brightly. Not a cloud in the sky. The course was an out and back through the town centre of Limassol on the road surrounded by tall white buildings, designed to reflect the heat. There was no support along the way at all as all roads closed to everyone. Unlike when my experience of Manchester which was one big 'party'. The heat totally zapped all my energy. I tried desperately to keep cool pouring water over my head at every aid station. It was horrendous!! Runners were being taken off by ambulance and others wired up to machines in the medical tents back at the finish. Never again! Having said this the organisation and running village were great.
Lesley Hinsley

London Marathon

Highly regarded as the running event of the year, the London Marathon draws elites, celebrities, charities, fancy dress costumes and record breakers alike. The majority of ‘mass’ runners begin at Blackheath, although there are two starting areas to cater to the number of participants. The course boasts iconic London landmarks, including the Cutty Sark at 10k, London Bridge at mile 12.5, Canary Wharf and Embankment, and the final stretch down birdcage walk, passing Buckingham palace. Finishers collect their medals on the Mall.

A huge congratulations to the RSE members who ran the course and to Paul Robertson who completed the virtual London marathon – I’m sure they will fill us in once they have recovered!

  • Felicity Crotty – 5:00:42
  • Monica Farthing – 6:01:00
  • Rachel Bodey – 3:49:53
  • Tim Wainwright
A lovely day, amazing experience, ridiculous crowd, spectators, experience!!
Felicity Crotty

Malvern Hills Trail half

This multi-terrain half marathon is a great choice for runners who like beautiful scenery and views, and don’t mind a hill or 2! The staff and the atmosphere are friendly, making it a perfect choice for a warm, spring day.

Congratulations to Zoe Markham-Lee who completed the course in 3:26:02!

2,525 feet on elevation. We went through fields, woodland and lots and lots of hills. Good aid stations with lovely oranges to refresh you. My legs definitely feel it today!
Zoe Markham-Lee

parkruns - 13/04/2024

Chippenham parkrun

  • Cheri Edwards – 27:44

Chipping Sodbury parkrun

  • Anne-Marie Davies – 29:23

Cirencester parkrun

  • Jon Campbell – 22:35
  • David Witnall – 23:53
  • Paul Billinghurst – 24:16
  • Anne Gardiner – 25:39
  • Samantha Ward – 31:01

Witney parkrun

  • Taryn Hancock – 33:22

Tetbury Goods Shed parkrun

  • Vicki Mason – 30:45

Central parkrun, Plymouth

  • Darren Jenner – 25:40
  • Felicity Crotty – 34:32

parkruns - 20/04/2024

Keswick parkrun

  • Cheri Edwards – 26:03

Cirencester parkrun

  • Phil Hudson – 22:23
  • Paul Billinghurst – 24:02
  • Sharon Smith – 24:45
  • Steve Sandercock – 26:18
  • Paul Robertson – 58:58

Oxford parkrun

  • Liz Hulcup – 27:45

Save the date!

  • 9th May – RSE Skittles Night for TIC+
  • 10th May – Bourton Mile (RSE Championship race)
  • 3rd June – Stroud Beer Race (RSE Championship race)
  • 12th June – Cirencester Summer Sizzler (RSE Championship race)
  • 23rd June – Rounders & Afternoon Tea – RSE vs Bourton Road Runners @ Stow Rugby Club
  • 6th July – Cotswold Way Relay
  • 12th-14th July – Hope Trail Festival
  • July (date TBC) – Family fun & BBQ @ St Michaels Park
  • 3rd August – RSE Summer Pool Party @ The Open Air Pool
  • September (date TBC) – Quiz & Chips for charity
  • October (date TBC) – End of Season social

The next RSE club report will be Sunday 5th May

If you would like a run or race included in the club report, don’t forget to fill in the form below by Sunday 5pm.

RSE Club Report – J’ai couru un marathon!

Paris Marathon

The Schneider Electric Marathon de Paris is one of the most prestigious races over the legendary 42.195 km distance and is one of the biggest marathons in the world. Tens of thousands of runners take to the streets of the city to catch glimpses of some of the cities most famous avenues and plazas. The race starts at the Arc de Triomphe, before heading out towards the Place de la Concorde, the Opéra Garnier, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower.

A huge congratulations to Liz Farooq and Kerrie Wallis for completing the course!

  • Kerrie Wallis – 4:18:58
  • Liz Farooq – 4:30:25
That was tough! 2nd best marathon time though so I’m pleased. The start and sights were amazing. No barriers for the crowds made it interesting at times and many of the runners seem to run like they drive around the arc de triomphe - 6 lanes to cut across or stop in, no problem! The atmosphere and support were really good, just felt hot and queasy today. Anyway, c’est fini, now for some steak frites and vin rouge 😁
Liz Farooq

Gloucester Half Marathon

This event offers a flat 10k or half marathon race option to Gloucestershire. The race courses provide a tour of Gloucester and Quedgeley, following a scenic route around the city centre streets, passing Gloucester Cathedral and Sharpness Canal Path.

Congratulations to the RSE members who took part!

10k

  • Philip Hudson – 46:13

Half Marathon

  • Sharon Smith – 1:44:04 – 1st V70!
  • Sarah Kaminski – 1:48:15 – 2nd V40!
  • Andrew Barrett – 1:53:55
  • Alan Powderhill – 1:56:06
  • Tim Wainwright – 2:02:28
  • Sara Juggins – 2:25:53

Highworth 5

The next race in the RSE Club Championship was an old favourite, the Highworth 5. This small local race is notorious for 5k PBs in the first half of the race, which is primarily downhill. But what goes down must then come up! The last mile is hilly… well it’s just the 1, very long, hill actually.

A huge well done to all the RSE runners who took on the course!

  • Jon Last – 32:01 – 1st MV50!
  • Mark Garrett – 35:45
  • Ben Mutlow – 36:19
  • Ben Chapman – 37:48
  • Sharon Smith – 38:35 – 2nd LV55!
  • David Witnall – 38:57
  • Stephen Sandercock – 39:31
  • Paul Beaumont – 39:32
  • Anne Gardiner – 40:44 – 3rd LV55!
  • Elaine Chapman – 42:45
  • Gemma Wright – 43:48
  • Sarah Page – 43:49
  • Kirsty Pitts – 43:58
  • Zoe Markham-Lee – 44:24
  • Tim Wainwright – 45:02
  • Anne-Marie Davies – 50:11
  • Samantha Ward – 50:52
I have to say, that hill and the wind made it tough !
Gemma Wright

parkruns - 30/03/2024

Lydiard parkrun

  • Cheri Edwards – 26:43

Killerton parkrun

  • Darren Jenner – 26:00
  • Felicity Crotty – 41:22

Bolton parkrun

  • Phil Southworth – 27:40

Cirencester parkrun

  • Jon Campbell – 23:32
  • Vicki Mason – 30:03

Kensington parkrun

  • William Cobbett – 24:57

Stratford Upon Avon parkrun

  • Liz Hulcup – 29:49

parkruns - 06/04/2024

Worcester Pitchcroft parkrun

  • Darren Jenner – 23:53
  • Felicity Crotty – 30:15

Cirencester parkrun

  • Phil Hudson – 23:55
  • Daniel Drayton – 24:41
  • Paul Billinghurst – 25:00
  • Nadine Brown – 29:34
  • Maria Yates – 33:42
  • Sue Navin – 33:42
  • Anne-Marie Davies – 58:52

Millhouses parkrun

  • Jessica James – 30:14

Leamington parkrun

  • Liz Hulcup – 30:19

Save the Date!

  • 15th April – Start of the Beginners’ course
  • 9th May – RSE Skittles Night for TIC+
  • 10th May – Bourton Mile (RSE Championship race)
  • 3rd June – Stroud Beer Race (RSE Championship race)
  • 12th June – Cirencester Summer Sizzler (RSE Championship race)
  • 23rd June – Rounders & Afternoon Tea – RSE vs Bourton Road Runners @ Stow Rugby Club
  • 6th July – Cotswold Way Relay
  • 12th-14th July – Hope Trail Festival
  • 20th July – RSE Summer Pool Party @ The Open Air Pool
  • August (date TBC) – Family fun & BBQ @ St Michaels Park
  • September (date TBC) – Quiz & Chips for charity
  • October (date TBC) – End of Season social

Spread the Word!

Please share the below poster and help spread the word that a new Beginners’ running course is starting!

The next RSE club report will be Sunday 21st April

If you would like a run or race included in the club report, don’t forget to fill in the form below by Sunday 5pm.

RSE Club Report – Taking in the Scenery!

The Grizzly

“Participants can expect 3000′ ascent over 20 miles, with two sections of pebble beaches, totalling over a mile; two energy sapping bogs, where runners are often up to their waists in water and mud; and the infamous “Stairway to Heaven”, a steep path up the side of a cliff” with an official race description like this, how could anyone say no?

The Grizzly (20 miles) and Cub (10 miles) races are tough, hilly events on multi-terrain surfaces, taking runners along the coastline of Devon. But with the challenges comes unique comraderies as participants help each other through the bogs and rivers, up the steep, slippy hillsides, and along the shoreline. Tipped as the muddiest Grizzly yet, the race lives up to its name!

A huge well done to the RSE members who took part!

The Grizzly

  • Sarah Reynolds – 5:19:12
  • Nadine Brown – 5:19:50
  • Ellie Witnall – 5:19:52

The Cub

  • Andy Sworn – 2:04:17
  • Carol Sworn – 2:04:18
Muddy, hilly, boggy, slippery, and beachy. Bands, a bagpiper and great volunteers. Type 2 Fun!
Sarah Reynolds
I'm not sure why I agreed to do this race as I usually hate hills (I'm blaming Nadine), but it turns out I absolutely loved it. The weather and scenery were beautiful, and it was fun to run/walk the course with friends. I'm very tempted to sign up again next year...
Ellie Witnall

Bath Half Marathon

Held in the centre of Bath, this half marathon attracts thousands of runners for its fast course, despite it being slightly undulating. The 2 lap route hugs both sides of the river Avon valley, avoiding some of Bath’s notorious hills and providing some beautiful scenery along the way. The race is well supported with spectators throughout the route

Congratulations to Paul Beaumont who completed the course in a brilliant time of 1:48:42!

This was my second half. I wanted to try a " biggish" event. This one was recommended. Was a bit apprehensive on several counts. Decided to go on the train from Swindon. Helped me to feel pretty positive about it, as lots of runners were on it . And then walking up to the Runners Village it seemed as though the runners had taken over Bath. Thought the event was very well organised - and the water stops had non plastic cups (big tick!).However, the stand-out thing was the crowd - with the encouragement and the noise ( and a couple of bands playing). Had decided before the race was going to try to use my watch to run at a sensible consistent pace. - typically, I didn't look at it once! Have to say there was a bit of a sting in the tail - running up to the finish. But it got the job done. And very happy with the chip time Should have mentioned it was good weather.
Paul Beaumont

Fission 20/20

Starting in Berkeley, Gloucestershire, this small, local-feeling race is a great option for those training for a spring marathon. The 2 lap course is flat and follows country lanes past farm land close to the river Severn. A half marathon option is also available, incorporating 1 lap of the route.

The race was the next event in the RSE club championship, and a great amount of RSE members turned out to take part. A huge well done to everyone who completed the course!

  • Nia Glover – 2:35:31
  • Ben Mutlow – 2:41:48
  • Jennifer Glass – 2:46:44 – 2nd LV55 and new PB!
  • Darren Jenner – 2:55:49 – new PB!
  • Rachel Bodey – 2:56:04
  • Elliot Gardiner – 3:05:53
  • Alan Powderhill – 3:06:16 – new PB!
  • Leah Brown – 3:07:04 – new PB!
  • Ellie Witnall – 3:09:13 – 2nd 20 mile race of the week!
  • Nadine Brown – 3:11:20
  • Kirsty Pitts – 3:16:15
  • Liz Farooq – 3:17:47
  • Elaine Chapman – 3:20:06
  • Tim Wainwright – 3:21:04
  • Andrew Barrett – 3:21:56
  • Linda Edwards – 3:40:52
  • Felicity Crotty – 3:52:42
  • Kevin Joynes-Creed – 3:52:50
Brilliant RSE turn out for the Fission 20 miles. So happy to achieve my 3rd PB in my last 3 races. I felt fairly comfortable throughout and was pleased to achieve a 7 minute PB in the end. Well done to everyone who ran so well. 👏💪
Alan Powderhill
This is the first time I've raced in a 20 mile race, and really enjoyed it, thanks to Elaine and Liz.
Kirsty Pitts
New 20 mile pb (partly because I have never done a 20 mile race before). Great course - lots of headwind but pretty flat - nice cake at the finish.
Jennifer Glass
Felt really strong today probably strongest I've felt in any long run. Lovely to run at Fission with beautiful scenery and a flat course. Not too hot slightly cool breeze what more can a runner want 😁. Really happy with my performance - struggled from mile 16 but I expected it.
Tim Wainwright
I used this race as my last long training run before the Manchester Marathon. The strategy was to try and stick to my planned marathon pace of 9.09 min miles, so I’m very happy with the overall pacing (considering I had to pit stop for a wee for a couple of mins at mile 6 😅). Time to taper! 😁
Elliot Gardiner

Minchinhampton 10k

This undulating road race starts at Minchinhampton Primary school before heading out along the quiet country lanes of the surrounding area. The Minchinhampton 10k has a local, friendly atmosphere, and although there are some hill climbs, there’s also long downhill stretches, making it a fairly quick course.

A huge well done to RSE’s Philip Hudson who completed the race in a brilliant time of 48:08!

Minch 10k is a challenging run on roads from Minchinhampton down to Avening and back through the lanes, the route is made tougher with a 1-mile hill from 6-7k.
Philip Hudson

Cleevewold

Crossing the highest point in the Cotswolds, Cleeve Common, it’s unsurpsing that the Cleevewold race is tough and hilly. The race starts at the medieval Postlip tithe barn before heading out to Cleeve Common and into the countryside, and then returning to Postlip via the Belas Knap neolithic burial mound.

A huge well done to Cheri Edwards and Vicki Mason for taking on the challenge!

  • Cheri Edwards – 2:30
  • Vicki Mason – 2:50
A fab race! Usually 14 miles but they amended the route and it was just shy of 13. Which was long enough as there was 2000ft of elevation! Started on Cleeve Common and ran up, down, around, up - lots of up - on nice trails and a couple of bumpy fields. Beautiful sunny day so great views. There weren’t that many entrants (70ish?) but it had a friendly vibe and was well marked, marshalled and organised. No medal but a bottle of local ale at the finish line and I was very surprised to get a jar of local honey for being first FV35. (Like I said…it was a small field of entrants!) Thanks to Vicki for suggesting it.
Cheri Edwards

parkruns - 16/03/2024

Kingsway parkrun, Gloucester

  • Cheri Edwards – 26:20

Kingsbury Water parkrun

  • Linda Edwards – 31:23

Chipping Sodbury parkrun

  • Vicki Mason – 27:52

Seaton parkrun

  • Carol Sworn – 29:07
  • Sarah Reynolds – 29:08
  • Andy Sworn – 29:20

Cirencester parkrun

  • Phil Hudson – 23:29
  • Ben Chapman – 23:36
  • Phil Newman – 24:45
  • Paul Billinghurst – 25:17
  • Paul Robertson – 34:25

Morecambe Prom parkrun

  • Phil Southworth – 24:47

Seven Fields parkrun

  • Steve Sandercock – 23:57

Central parkrun, Plymouth

  • Darren Jenner – 25:08
  • Felicity Crotty – 36:29

Gungahlin Parkrun, Canberra

  • Liz Hulcup – 29:58 – 1st LV70!

parkruns - 23/03/2024

Aberdeen parkrun

  • Anne-Marie Davies – 30:24

Guildford parkrun

  • Taryn Hancock – 32:43

Cirencester parkrun

  • Jon Campbell – 22:21
  • Daniel Drayton – 24:56
  • Paul Billinghurst – 25:01
  • Paul Beaumont – 26:04

Tsurumi Ryokuchi parkrun

  • Cathy Steer – 31:37

Philips Park parkrun

  • Phil Southworth – 26:00

 

Save the Date!

  • 1st April – April Fools away day run
  • 3rd April – Easter Egg Hunt!
  • 7th April – Highworth 5 mile (RSE Championship race)
  • 15th April – Start of the Beginners’ course
  • 10th May – Bourton Mile (RSE Championship race)
  • 3rd June – Stroud Beer Race (RSE Championship race)
  • 12th June – Cirencester Summer Sizzler (RSE Championship race)
  • 6th July – Cotswold Way Relay
  • 12th-14th July – Hope Trail Festival

Spread the Word!

Please share the below poster and help spread the word that a new Beginners’ running course is starting!

The next RSE club report will be Sunday 7th April

If you would like a run or race included in the club report, don’t forget to fill in the form below by Sunday 5pm.

RSE Club Report – New Year, Another parkrun!

parkruns 06/01/2024

Lydiard parkrun

  • Jon Campbell – 22:05
  • Steve Sandercock – 25:11
  • Katy Miller – 27:44
  • Cheri Edwards – 33:46

Whitley Bay parkrun

  • Linda Edwards – 29:46

Worcester parkrun

  • Felicity Crotty – 36:04

Tetbury Goods Shed parkrun

  • Phil Hudson – 22:01
  • Phil Southworth – 25:06

Seven Fields parkrun

  • Vicki Mason – 28:34

parkruns 13/01/2024

Lydiard parkrun

  • Jon Campbell – 21:33
  • Steve Sandercock – 24:51

Cirencester parkrun

  • Ben Chapman – 24:24
  • Phil Newman – 25:22
  • Sharon Smith – 26:28
  • Phil Hudson – 27:14
  • Phil Southworth – 27:18
  • Robert Baker – 28:46
  • Sue Navin – 29:05
  • Vicki Mason – 33:08
  • Maria Yates – 33:19
  • Sylvia Warman – 38:36

Marlborough Common parkrun

  • Anne-Marie Davies – 31:05

Tetbury Goods Shed parkrun

  • Felicity Crotty – 31:24

Central parkrun, Plymouth

  • Darren Jenner – 26:33

Chipping Norton School parkrun

  • Liz Hulcup – 29:07

Congratulations to our Gloucestershire AAA Road Race Championship medal winners!

Save the Date!

The next RSE club report will be Sunday 28th/Monday 29th January

If you would like a run or race included in the club report, don’t forget to fill in the form below by Sunday 5pm.