Sussex Sport Photography.com - News Blog

F3 Events 2012 - 10k and Duathlon now live

2012-01-23T13:39:00.000Z

With a quick 9 man-hours of office time yesterday evening to go through everything - the Galleries for the F3 Events 10k and Duathlon race 1 - 2012 are now live and online here:

10k:
http://bit.ly/F3-Events-10k-1-2012-race-photos

Duathlon:
http://bit.ly/F3-Winter-Duathlon-1-2012-race-photos

Windy but warm conditions for January saw the start of the F3 Events Duathlon and 10k series held at Dorney lake near Windsor.

Tight racing including some at Olympic standard gave it everything, including some first timers trying their hand at triathlon without the annoying wet bit.
A full race report is here from the organisers so I won't replicate that !

For our bit we had a new team member out on the course covering the running sections and race, whilst already a professional phtoographer and runner, for Hannah getting on the other side of the lens during a race was a new experience. "I'm exhausted from the amount of concentration whilst watching people run" was my favourite noted comment of the day (and we had only covered the duathlon at that point.)

As I'm not a paparratzi (and never will be) I'm not used to random people purposefully standing in my way and being abusive, but there was a first time for everything during the duathlon cycle - so if I don't have your photo on the bike course it's probably because your father came and stood right in the way in front of me (only 2km of route to stand on and he chose my 1m) and then decided to verbally abuse me. Weird doesn't describe it, but in 25 years of professional photography I guess there is still a first time for everything. I have his photo as he's supporting, but unfortunately out of focus (because he's in the background). I'm tempted to post it here, but that might seem a bit unfair... For what it's worth the race manager wanted to disqualify the competitor who he was supporting - but obvisously as I didn't get their photo (due to their supporter) and I couldn't ID him (not that I would - you can't be responsible for your Dad now can you?)

Anyway for those who didn't have my view blocked I was having a day out with some off camera remote flash. Here's a small sample from the bike course some with and some without flash - it's a tough call between blur and freeze - and sometimes just sometimes lots of blur is good - it's a bit of gamble sometimes, enjoy ! At least I was out of the wind when I was lying on the ground doing some of these. For the technically minded it's about 100th or 125th of a second depending on the amount of blur you want and adjust your ISO depending on how dark you want the background to be.

surely she was cold ?

this chap gave it the face all the way round, and did ok too

Out of the saddle and driving off for the down-wind section

looking ahead carefully

reaching for the banana

Big shoulders. Very Big. Big Deal.

Enjoying the race

If it wasn't for the wheel blur, this could almost be a studio shot with the flash fill

That old standard - the slow shutter panning along piccy

So that's the first of the events under wasy. We're scheduled to be at the 2nd and 4th races in Feb and April because the whole country has decided that the 25th of March is the day for a race - and with 5 other 1000+ people races on that day we get a bit short on resources. If we can get coverage to Dorney lake for the 3rd race we will - but I can't bank on it at the moment (booking photographers is a bit like hearding cats).

Other Events for you to enter:

Apart from the rest of the F3 races here: http://www.f3events.co.uk we would like to draw your attention to these ones:
Half Marathons from Feb - if you're on a spring marathon training plan:
http://bit.ly/Colchester-half-marathon-2012

http://bit.ly/Deal-half-marathon-2012-entry
http://bit.ly/Roding-Valley-Half-2012

And a 10k-ish next week for your training warm up in south london
http://bit.ly/Epsom-Perch-2012-entry

RIgtht, fingers crossed my Calf has de-knotted and I can get back out running, otherwise it's a treadmill ECG in two hours with the cardiologist. Could be interesting in a "that's normal" kind of way hopefully.

Until next time
Anthony

Here's a list of recent galleries you might have forgotten about your pictures - get them before they go !

Date	Recent Events
22/01/2012	now live - F3 Events 10k #1 2012
22/01/2012	now live - F3 Winter Duathlon #1 2012
14/01/2012	now live - G3 January Race 1 - free downloads
08/01/2012	now live - Sussex XC Champs 2012
02/01/2012	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2012
01/01/2012	now live - Serpentine NYD 10k
18/12/2011	now live - RPAC Holly Run
11/12/2011	now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
27/11/2011	now live - The 3xMolehills 2011
20/11/2011	now live - Brighton 10k 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Grand Union Canal Half 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Poppy Half 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Phoenix Preston Park Races 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads
30/10/2011	now live - Barns Green Half Marathon 2011
22/10/2011	now live - Beachy Head Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Abingdon Marathon 2011

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

G3 January Race 1 - Free Downloads

2012-01-15T22:36:00.001Z

The January G3 10k race free download gallery is now live and online here:

http://bit.ly/G3-race1-2012-free-race-photos

In the opening event of the years Runners Need G3 race series, organised by allabouttriathlons.co.uk 370 runners braved the sub zero (-2 degC) early morning temperatures with a clear blue sky above whilst fog and mist hung in the valleys.

Starting from Newlands corner and down around the January course, (here on the good running guide) the 10k course takes in the challenge of St.Martha's hill on the sandy hills of the north downs, which once you've done that twice, you still need to get back up to the finish at Newlands Corner from wence you came. It's a bit of a sting in the tail.

The view from the top of St.Martha's Hill

Smiling on the way up for the first time

Toby the event organiser asked if I could also do some arty blur shots - which for the technically minded of you requires wirelessley triggered off camera flash, external battery pack for fast flash recycle time, and a tripod, camera set at about 1/40th on Shutter priority (some on 1/20th too). There's a high edit out rate, and also the flash doesn't go off (when it's busy, unless you want to blow the flash bulb which costs £250) but there's a couple of hundred in the arty folder here:
http://bit.ly/G3-Race1-2012-blury-action-pics if you fancy a look see.
Naturally due to the blur and angle I can't index all of them - so worth a gander or check through the 000 files as always. Let me know if you find one that needs renumbering - makes it easier for you to find next time...

wizzing through the woods

mind the tree...

one way down the hill in the dark woods

almost looks like a studio shot

yep looks like a studio shoot

power zoom, off camera flash, long shutter speed. the equivalent of photo gambling - sometimes it works and you get a dynamic result

enjoying the view from the top of St.Martha's

Freewheeling down the hill at more than full pace

Rory led the runners out on his bike, cheating as usual

at about the 2k mark in full flow

it obviously wasn't too cold, just sub zero

The view of St.Martha's Hill from Newlands Corner - with mist hanging in the distant valleys

good finishing all the way to the line

pushing in to get the time down

Competitive running to the end

So go to the results here to see how well you all got on - http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/events_g3-run.html and also to make sure you've entered the next race on Saturday February the 4th. See if you can do the Feb course faster than Guy Bowles did this months in 39:44 - which as a sub 40 on that hilly course is frankly awesome...

And as way of an experiment - if you do download your photos - please give the event a "like" (as on the gallery page here http://bit.ly/G3-race1-2012-free-race-photos ) for the facebook thingy

Have a look at this list below in case you may have missed yourself in any of these recent gallerys - it's a small selection of some of the recent ones, as well as the next ones that are going to get archived.

Next race is the F3 Events Duathlons and 10ks at Dorney lake - hopefully it will be summer by then and a bit warmer !

Until next time,
Anthony

p.s. in other news Comet took their 48hrs, added 4 weeks, and finally agreed that the display docking station may have damaged the wifes phone (which of course it did). The cheque is apparently in the post, thanks to Darren in customer services who chased the technical report and the Hove store manager who didn't quite do everything possible to delay things, so I'm not going to ever shop there again !, just like you ? We await the postman.

Recent races of relevance
14/01/2012	now live - G3 January Race 1 - free downloads
08/01/2012	now live - Sussex XC Champs 2012
02/01/2012	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2012
01/01/2012	now live - Serpentine NYD 10k
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011

Next in the archive queue
20/08/2011	now live - Pride Run 2011
20/08/2011	now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Big South Swim 2011
14/08/2011	now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011
07/08/2011	now live - Milland Valley 2011
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Sussex County XC Champs 2012 now live

2012-01-09T22:47:00.003Z

The gallery for the 2012 Sussex County XC Champs is now live and online here: http://bit.ly/Sussex-XC-Champs-2012-race-photos

There's an excellent report as ever by Reg on the SCAA website here - http://www.sussexathletics.org.uk/news.php?id=1099

The new route - straight up a hill and then back down - breaks the field nicely

Tight finishing in the U17m - only a second in it for Ian Crowe-Wright

Emma MacReady stalked first place to the final straight and then powered past to win the Sen Women

The Start of the Mens race with the top of the hill in the background

Emma Dixon returns after 4 years off with injury to win the U17 Women

Concentration all the way to take third in the U13Boys

Alex Medlicott Won the U13Girls for Crawley AC

Vince - is always a winner

Grant enjoyed it far too much

The 2012 course - for future reference

The 2012 finish line photographer - for future reference

Congratulations to Phoenix AC on the mens team victory and a strong recent run of form on the county scene and a very well done to Crawley AC women on taking the womens team title against the form book.

Races to Enter:

A quick heads up for a race that has just opened their entries for later in the year, the Colchester Half Marathon:
March the 11th - http://bit.ly/Colchester-half-marathon-2012
Last year was a very well received race - based out of the new football stadium at Colchester - with great facilities for pre and post race needs, this year the race will go down the very scenic high street in the middle of town - so expect some excellent crowds and support en-route if you go.

A bit before that on the 26th of February - is the Roding Valley Half Marathon
http://bit.ly/Roding-Valley-Half-2012
This race has gone from strength to strength each year - based at the Woodford Green AC track it has often been the Essex Half Marathon Championship race. This year is race number 30 - so get in there and make it a good marker for your London / Brighton Marathon Training.

In other news - Comet Hove are now over two weeks past their "48hrs resolution" on the 21st of december when a display docking station burnt my wifes iphone out. Not good enough Comet despite your phone calls to remind us how far behind you are, we won't be going there again, and nor I hope will you.

Park run in Hove is still going strong - attracting 440 runners last saturday (including myself for an ok 22:58 5k), but also of interest to some of you in Sussex is that there is now a new Park run in Eastbourne
http://www.parkrun.org.uk/eastbourne/home
starting on January the 28th...

Right - the G3 series for this saturday has been sold out, and my sister in law is running in it, so I'd better get a good shot of her hadn't I ?

Until next time, and happy training,
Anthony

Recent Galleries of interest
11/12/2011	now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011
some from August
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads
Albums below will be ARCHIVED SOON
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k
24/07/2011	just gone - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011
24/07/2011	just gone - Downland Running Festival 2011

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.

Brutal 10 - 2012 race 1 - now live

2012-01-04T12:13:00.000Z

The first Brutal Run of 2012 went off to start the new year as they meant to go on - fast, tough and very Brutal.
The gallery is now live here http://bit.ly/Brutal10-2012-race1-official-photos

197 runners set off on a dry, warm January morning to do battle with the countryside of the Longmoor army training area, and then 2k in they found the water hazard... With a tougher gully run after the first water and more sandy hill climbs, this years Brutal Longmoor was certainly harder than last years.

Whether it was New Year challenges and resolution beings fulfilled, or just for the feeling of being alive a hardy band of competitors took to the conditions unlike ducks to water (because they float) and ran through the frost touched route. One of the most notable observations (apart from the ridiculous amount of smiling that was going on) was that the race field was made up of a much more even balance of young and older competitors and male female. Usually races are biased a bit towards the male 30-50yr old veteran but there is clearly something in the gravity of a Brutal run that attracts all-comers.

I had to edit this selection down from 68 images to 18 - just to give you a feel for the amount of fun that can be had whilst running and watching a Brutal 10...

The water was easier this year - lower and no ice

There was still competitive racing to get through the water first

The three amigos - helped each other round all the way

These two kept each other going well through the last day of the holidays

Man Down ! Dez goes for a burton

Let out from london, Alex Reid discovered the real meaning of Brutal

Concentrate at all times

No alligators or crocodiles, just check behind you

It's always good fun wading through mud and water with friends, and stopping to enjoy the moment

Keep your eyes on the goal ahead for 2012

Almost done !

Happy as a hell in the Brutal mud

Double thumbs after taking the harder Tunnel option

Incoming splash at the camera lens - nothing like being close to the action, except the smell

Off up the gully

Nobody got stuck, if you were hard enough to take the tunnel option

A quick run across the sand dunes and home

He realised he had forgotten to enter the next Brutal run - but all was not lost - it's on March the 17th, but hurry up - there are limited places

Well done to Alan, Colin and Dave for another great Brutal run, safe, challenging and hard work for all the competitors, as well as great marshalling (from probably the most offroad-race experienced marshals you will ever meet) and probably the most thoroughly marked out course you will ever come across. Only one person pulled off the course yesterday - his first run in four years and after the first water hazard he became a justified recepient of the "silver cloak of warmth" I hope he's warmed up by now !

Next Races
So, you have two months to get fit and fearless for the next Brutal Run at windmill hill. Between then and now its the county and national cross county championships, as well as the Epsom Perch, The G3, and the Deal Half Marathon all of which will get you into good shape, hill ready and up for a race.

Right, I'm off for a quickish 5k, lunch and then hopefully - order processing. Remember we correct and photoshop every image ordered (except the instant downloads), so be assured that mud will show up beautifully !

Until next time
Anthony

Click here to find your next race

Recent races of interest - because forgetting is not an option
11/12/2011	now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011
Some to go soon from August
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads
The Albums below will be ARCHIVED SOON!
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k
24/07/2011	now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011
24/07/2011	just gone - Downland Running Festival 2011

Serpentine NYD 10k 2012

2012-01-03T00:54:00.000Z

The 2012 New Years Day Serpentine 10k race gallery is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/Serpentine-NYD-10k-official-photos

Like hounds out of the traps the first race of 2012 was unleashed

Whilst most sane people were still asleep (well I guessed from my brothers text at 3:20am he wouldn't have been up, but is he sane ?) the fit healthy people of Serpentine Running Club were tiptoeing about Hyde Park getting ready to marshall the Serpentine 10k, the traditional New Years Day opener for the year.

About 100 marshalls kept 501 finishers along the straight and narrow around the park, under the bridge, two laps round Kensington Palace pond and then back down along the lake, under the bridge to finish.

In what can only be described as an alchohol free christmas time of 32:42.8 Andrew Rayner delivered a bit of a late Santa special with a 37 second victory over Jacob Wiebel (33:11.9). In the ladies race Katie Good (35:29.4) in 10th overall was 11 seconds ahead of Rosalind Kieran (35:40.4) - clearly neither had eaten enough mince pies over the break by all accounts.

Shout out to David who I was at school with - and his 47:52, I'll bear that in mind as a target to aspire to during my half marathon training for the next two months.

Here's a few happy faces from Sundays Serpentine race:

Flying along at the 1k mark

The view back from Lancaster gate on the out lap

Not sure who dragged who round, but they both smiled - a lot

These chaps seemed to have a great day out

Beware the 44:24 fancy dress runner who makes your run look "normal"

Happy New Year running

Far too happy with 500m to go - landmark bridge in background

Good to have made it out of bed in time

Synchronised happy flailing

Mens winner - Andrew Rayner

Ladies winner - Katie Good

Everyones a winner

Truly victorious for Fidelia

Caption Competition - suggestions on an email please

Eagles flying in at the finish

Extra motivation provided by the Portland Marathon Running Coach

Well done to everyone on Sunday - the results are on the serpentine website - linked from the Gallery page here: http://bit.ly/Serpentine-NYD-10k-official-photos

The 2012 calendar is full already leaving me with 3 weekends to figure out what to do with myself, one is easter sunday, the other christmas, and another is late May - which is unanticipated but 120 events listed so far should be enough.

And for those of you waiting for the Brutal gallery - we're half way through the cataloguing already !
http://bit.ly/Brutal-10-homepage

Here's a few of the last gallery listings that need a bit of attention before they go,
until next time
Anthony

Just Fresh

December

11/12/2011

now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011

10/12/2011

now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011

August

Albums below will be ARCHIVED SOON

28/08/2011

now live - Bexhill Tri 2011

28/08/2011

now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads

27/08/2011

now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads

21/08/2011

now live - Ringmer Tri 2011

20/08/2011

now live - Pride Run 2011

20/08/2011

now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011

20/08/2011

now live - Big South Swim 2011

14/08/2011

now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011

07/08/2011

now live - Milland Valley 2011

July

Albums below will be
ARCHIVED VERY SOON

30/07/2011

now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads

27/07/2011

now live - Bexhill 5k

24/07/2011

now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011

24/07/2011

now live - Downland Running Festival 2011

RPAC Holly Run 2011 now live

2011-12-20T12:47:00.000Z

The 2011 RPAC Holly Run gallery is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/RPAC-Holly-Run-2011-official-photos

Event website: http://www.rpac.org.uk/index.php?p=hollyrun
Race results: http://www.rpac.org.uk/index.php?p=results&resulttype=or

On a deceptively cold day, with firm ground underfoot a record entry in the junior races was a pleasant surprise for everyone. With the wind and rain keeping out of the way several course records were broken making for a fantastic days racing- it's great to see the talent developing in the area with such great commitment from the coaches and clubs that took part. Very well done to the RPAC team for putting on such a great local - and wider community - race series.

Next Races
If like me it's a weekend off next weekend (yaay for my third weekend off in the year) then the next races are at the new year - for me it will be the Serpentine New Years Day 10k (full), or the Brutal10 on the 2nd of January as a pre-return-to-work freshener - highly recommended !

Christmas deadlines
Digital downloads are available instantly all the way through the Christmas break, today was the last day before 2pm for prints before christmas day, and digital files will be processed asap up to Thursday. Any custom products will be delivered after christmas now.

Thanks for reading and subscribing to the news Blog through 2011, so until next year
Anthony

Plenty of new talent on the run

Tight racing from the Senior Races

Close finishing and sprinting in

Checking over the wrong shoulder, 781 got there first

Minimal fancy dress this year

p.s. Please don't shop in Comet Hove - a docking station on display destroyed my wifes iphone (i.e. it burnt out the main circuit board killing it totally) and they have been refusing any liability whatsoever for the damage. Their customer services has been infuriatingly unsympathetic and not helpful in any way saying talk to the shop manager, and the shop manager claims he has no authority to help citing talk to customer services. However the faulty docking station was removed from display and returned to the manufacturer - because naturally they believed my wife about that bit of her story.
So, please don't support poor customer service and don't shop in Comet Hove. If anything changes - I'll update you ! In the meantime - if you must - go to PCWorld instead - because they just sold off Comet from the group at a loss.

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Current gallery listing - the ones at the bottom will be archived first to make space for new events so don't miss out, especially on the free download galleries.

December
18/12/2011	now live - RPAC Holly Run
11/12/2011	now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
November
27/11/2011	now live - The 3xMolehills 2011
20/11/2011	now live - Brighton 10k 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Poppy Half 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Phoenix Preston Park Races 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Grand Union Canal Half 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Veteran Car Run 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads
05/11/2011	now live - Future Car Challenge Run 2011
October
30/10/2011	now live - Barns Green Half Marathon 2011
22/10/2011	now live - Beachy Head Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Abingdon Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Kellystore Guildford 2011 - free downloads
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Petts Wood 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Givaudan Ashford 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Badger Half 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Herts 10k 2011
08/10/2011	now live - Dusk till Dawn 2011
08/10/2011	now live - XT MTB Enduro and 10k 2011 - free downloads
02/10/2011	now live - 7Oaks Junior Aquathlon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Wimbledon 10k October 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Reading O2O 10k 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Basingstoke Half Marathon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Rowers Revenge 2011
September
25/09/2011	now live - Tonbridge Half Marathon 2011
25/09/2011	now live - Hursley 10k 2011
25/09/2011	Now live - The Big 10k 2011
24/09/2011	now live - XT Festival 2011 - free downloads
18/09/2011	now live - Pilgrims Half and Full Marathon 2011
18/09/2011	now live - Kellystore Joyden Woods 10k - free downloads
11/09/2011	now live - Chestnut Tree House 10k 2011
11/09/2011	now live - Bacchus Full and Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Newbury Tri 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Maidenhead Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - ETL Spitfire 20+ Tempest 10
August
28/08/2011	now live - Bexhill Tri 2011
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads
21/08/2011	now live - Ringmer Tri 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Pride Run 2011
20/08/2011	now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Big South Swim 2011
14/08/2011	now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011
07/08/2011	now live - Milland Valley 2011
July	Going to be archived very soon ! - don't miss out.
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k
24/07/2011	now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011
24/07/2011	now live - Downland Running Festival 2011

The Seaford Striders Mince Pie 10, 2011

2011-12-13T16:01:00.003Z

The Seafords Striders Mince Pie 10 is now live and on line here:
http://bit.ly/MincePie10-official-photos-2011

The eagle eyed of you will have already spotted the images were live on line yesterday, so you've had a head start on looking and ordering your pictures. Apologies for the blog delay - events (as they say).

On Sunday morning it was drier than the forecast had anticipated, with the pre-race rain blowing through before the start, and then starting again after the race. The only challenge was the incredibly strong storm force winds from the south west - but that did help with running back up the downs at the 6 mile mark !
Otherwise at some moments we even had some sun cut through the cloud and put a bit of glow on the ground.

James Baker flew round the course this year with 56:34 over a minute ahead of Mark Dooley in second place - even though both of them broke the magic 1hr mark and taking the course record. Respect for that - I'd be happy with 8 miles under the hour.
Sam Alvarez took the ladies title with a 1:10:45 performance to win by over a minute and a half over Susie Casebourne in 1:12:26.

Overall it was a record turn out - 327 finishers and they didn't run out of Mince Pies !

Results and other race information is available on the Seaford Striders website here: http://www.seafordstriders.org.uk/mincepie.html


The winner James, practising for his Christmas Eve shopping sprint

Wild Dogs couldn't catch him

The hills were alive with the wings of Angels - variation on the airplane theme

Santa got caught up in the excitement

Good to see both Twins out and hopefully injury free

Mandatory hat wearing, black gloves

Thumbless sock gloves - probably a good idea given the cold wind

Red, black gloves and stripey mittens

No gloves for happy thumbs

A bit of argie-bargie banter on the downhill leg


Minimal fancy dress taken to a whole new level. At least it had Bells on !

Well done to Geoff and Natalie for another well organised event and the whole Seaford Striders team for a fantastically well marshalled race. The Mince Pies were delicious and very welcome after freezing up on the hillside ! I hope your

Next Sunday
The last run for the year is up at the RPAC Holly Run in Reigate - so get yourself up for that, if not yourself - get the kids out for the other distances and nurture the future - http://bit.ly/RPAC-Holly-Run-entries

Christmas orders
Please check the earlier blog post for the last minute orders deadlines before Christmas - and go to the event listed below to get that easy present. A customised whatsathingy with their photo on (or for parents - with your photo on it) - always a winner ! Get the right size digital file and then get onto your favourite on line gift supplier / maker and get that present sorted... (we use the professional services of http://www.photobox.co.uk/ but you might want to use someone else).

Until next time
Anthony

	December
11/12/2011	now live - Seaford Mince Pie 10 2011
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
	November
27/11/2011	now live - The 3xMolehills 2011
20/11/2011	now live - Brighton 10k 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Poppy Half 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Phoenix Preston Park Races 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Grand Union Canal Half 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Veteran Car Run 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads
05/11/2011	now live - Future Car Challenge Run 2011
	October
30/10/2011	now live - Barns Green Half Marathon 2011
22/10/2011	now live - Beachy Head Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Abingdon Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Kellystore Guildford 2011 - free downloads
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Givaudan Ashford 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Badger Half 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Herts 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Petts Wood 10k 2011
08/10/2011	now live - XT MTB Enduro and 10k 2011 - free downloads
08/10/2011	now live - Dusk till Dawn 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Reading O2O 10k 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Basingstoke Half Marathon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Rowers Revenge 2011
02/10/2011	now live - 7Oaks Junior Aquathlon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Wimbledon 10k October 2011
	September
25/09/2011	now live - Hursley 10k 2011
25/09/2011	now live - The Big 10k 2011
25/09/2011	now live - Tonbridge Half Marathon 2011
24/09/2011	now live - XT Festival 2011 - free downloads
18/09/2011	now live - Kellystore Joyden Woods 10k - free downloads
18/09/2011	now live - Pilgrims Half and Full Marathon 2011
11/09/2011	now live - Chestnut Tree House 10k 2011
11/09/2011	now live - Bacchus Full and Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Newbury Tri 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Maidenhead Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - ETL Spitfire 20+ Tempest 10
	August
28/08/2011	now live - Bexhill Tri 2011
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads
21/08/2011	now live - Ringmer Tri 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Pride Run 2011
20/08/2011	now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Big South Swim 2011
14/08/2011	now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011
07/08/2011	now live - Milland Valley 2011
	Albums below will be ARCHIVED SOON
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k
24/07/2011	now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011
24/07/2011	now live - Downland Running Festival 2011

Brutal 10 Race 3 now live

2011-12-12T00:16:00.001Z

4300 pictures of Brutal mud and sweat are now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/Brutal10-v2-R3-2011-race-photos

Over 200 cold hardened Athletes and Canine companions decided that the army training grounds at Bordon were the place to be on Saturday, the coldest morning of December so far.
With the car thermometer cracking up to -1DegC (from -3.5) when we arrived and with the sun slowly glinting over the trees it was a quick shake of wet muddy hands with Dave who had just run the course to check it for safety and ensure it wasn't too easy. Apparently it wasn't and he pointed me to a few of the trickier locations for Mike and I to go and take a look at ready for the race.

Checking across different points around the course and figuring a plan of action we aimed for 6 different points with two priority locations of the 6k swamp and the 9k tunnel which you will find are probably the most fun shots to have a look at ! Hope you enjoy the gallery, another fantastic race put on by Colin, Dave and Allan with their team of volunteers and the fantastic food from Tom, I recommend the Currywurst.

The Next Brutal 10 is at Longmore, on the day before you have to go back to work after New Years day - i.e. the 2nd January.
Click here to go to the Brutal website: http://www.brutalrun.co.uk/ and get your entry in soon !

Across the frozen fields at the start

Don't mess with the tame wolfs

Fun up to your knees

All ok So far at 4k

Carry your small friend with you under your arm

Canicross with your mascot

Honest, proper running. Just not on grass.

From up here I can see for miles

At one with nature

Apparently it was cold.

Through the tunnel of love

Runners over the top and then down and round

Soundbite - "And your going on a diet after this" "woof".

All happy with a quick wash down near the finish

off together into the woods upstream.

So the Brutal race Gallery is live and online here:
http://bit.ly/Brutal10-v2-R3-2011-race-photos

Next race for us is the RPAC Holly Run kids races - the very last run out before christmas ! http://www.rpac.org.uk/index.php?p=hollyrun

The Seaford Mince Pie 10 is just uploading as I type, so that will be blogged up next !
until next time
Anthony
(p.s. current live gallery list is below - get them before they are archived)

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

	Current Event listing
10/12/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 3 2011
27/11/2011	now live - The 3xMolehills 2011
20/11/2011	now live - Brighton 10k 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Poppy Half 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Phoenix Preston Park Races 2011
13/11/2011	now live - Grand Union Canal Half 2011
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Veteran Car Run 2011
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads
05/11/2011	now live - Future Car Challenge Run 2011
30/10/2011	now live - Barns Green Half Marathon 2011
22/10/2011	now live - Beachy Head Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Abingdon Marathon 2011
16/10/2011	now live - Kellystore Guildford 2011 - free downloads
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Givaudan Ashford 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Badger Half 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Herts 10k 2011
09/10/2011	now live - Petts Wood 10k 2011
08/10/2011	now live - XT MTB Enduro and 10k 2011 - free downloads
08/10/2011	now live - Dusk till Dawn 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Reading O2O 10k 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Basingstoke Half Marathon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Rowers Revenge 2011
02/10/2011	now live - 7Oaks Junior Aquathlon 2011
02/10/2011	now live - Wimbledon 10k October 2011
25/09/2011	now live - Hursley 10k 2011
25/09/2011	Now live - The Big 10k 2011
25/09/2011	now live - Tonbridge Half Marathon 2011
24/09/2011	now live - XT Festival 2011 - free downloads
18/09/2011	now live - Kellystore Joyden Woods 10k - free downloads
18/09/2011	now live - Pilgrims Half and Full Marathon 2011
11/09/2011	now live - Chestnut Tree House 10k 2011
11/09/2011	now live - Bacchus Full and Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Newbury Tri 2011
04/09/2011	now live - Maidenhead Half Marathon 2011
04/09/2011	now live - ETL Spitfire 20+ Tempest 10
28/08/2011	now live - Bexhill Tri 2011
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads
21/08/2011	now live - Ringmer Tri 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Pride Run 2011
20/08/2011	now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011
20/08/2011	now live - Big South Swim 2011
14/08/2011	now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011
07/08/2011	now live - Milland Valley 2011
	Archiving soon
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k
24/07/2011	now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011
24/07/2011	now live - Downland Running Festival 2011

Year End Review and Christmas 2011

2011-12-05T13:26:00.001Z

The Christmas shopping rush begins...

The Annual Christmas Discount Sale ! All prices held at 2011 prices until year end...

A bit about Christmas Discount prices, some stuff about the busy year, and Christmas order deadline dates. And some happy pictures (as usual).

Christmas Discount
Everyone knows that photographs get more valuable as time goes by, which is why we don't offer any crazy discounts on your pictures as they get older, and because we're nice we don't put the prices up either (but that's a thought!) - also you're not cheap and the images always get better value over time.

There was Snow last year just before Christmas

We work hard to keep our prices realistic and good honest value all through the year and now is no different - so get to the gallery to get hold of your precious memories today whilst they are still there (there's a big list of races still live at the bottom of this blog).

Fun at the Bexhill 5k this year.

From personal experience I know photos get more valuable because the ones I have of my parents and family I cherish more every day. Once they are gone, they are gone. In a recent survey the family photo album was top of the list of things people would grab in a house fire on the way out, although I'm not sure how that works with digital computing and the advent of "the cloud". Anyhow - just ask any ex-runner if they regret not having a photo from a particular race and I'll bet you'll get a long breakdown of their best performance in a race ever - a thousand words that cold have been said with one picture !

We make you look cool. It's our job.

I've never heard anyone yet complain that they have too many photos of themselves playing sport especially once they have stopped playing the sport - they are a guaranteed risk free purchase as presents for friends and club mates!

You can even buy a picture for your Mum if you like James...

Some might complain that they don't look "model perfect" in a particular race photo, however I can attest to this now - nobody looks perfect in a race - you're not supposed to. Actually the better and harder and more effort a runner puts into a race, the less model perfect they look, and the more human and real it becomes, and hence a better memory.

The legend that is Jacko. He retired from Sussex, but came back because it was too boring up north. Definitely not an Ex-runner.

The bad news is we all become ex-runners at some point, I broke my foot for example, and I'll never do a PB again after that (18mins for 5k allegedly), for others, it's the knees, or for some, it's the family - and then how do you prove that you were once a runner to your youngest and dearest when they ask for proof ? Get that photo now before it's too late. Frame it and put it up in the small room with your other certificates where they will one day see it and doubt it really is you with hair.

The 10 legged Tempest 10 - time for a team Tshirt

Still not too late

The good news is it's still not to late to get some of the pictures we hold from 2011, and so below at the bottom is a list of events and race photos that are still currently available on the gallery.

Whilst the economy continues to trudge along the blunt edge of a EU butter knife trying to cut a garlic filled sauerkraut, and with 2012 not looking much brighter so far unless you're an administrator in Brussels, you can guarantee yourself a small ray of sunshine by looking at your 2011 race photos, getting the best one for yourself and perhaps your best friend from *that race* and make sure you keep it safe for when you need it.

There is a full list of races below at the bottom of this blog that are currently still on line on the gallery. Go and have a look now and get your best friend a picture as a secret Santa for the office party.

Christmas post and snow = give it plenty of time

Christmas Last Order deadlines: UK Mainland Only

Digital downloads - instant delivery - no deadline, even Christmas day at 9pm - they're yours.
Medium and High resolution files by email - Wednesday the 21st December
Prints by post - Thursday 15th December
Mugs and Mouse mats - Monday 12th of December
All Images@event collections

By Server Download - Tuesday the 20th December
By Post on a CD - Saturday the 17th December

There is no greater happiness than self fulfilment

The joy of ordering your images on time for Christmas feels a bit like this

The hard data for 2012
Some people seem to think that photography is a magical process that doesn't take much time and effort, fuel or involve anything like server hosting costs (strangely this frequently seems to be freelance writers on paid jobs asking for free images for their magazine article. Words are cheap, but not free apparently), but having been a spreadsheet guru in my previous line of work (still available for consultant work...), I thought I'd share what we get up to using some of the numbers. With over 15 professional photographers now on our team it takes a fair bit to make sure they all get their commissions correctly at the end of the month. With over 23 new events this year it's been quite busy with my last free Sunday not attending an event having being Easter Sunday back in April. I will be seeing my daughter this Christmas.

It's teamwork wot gets your images on line innit.

This year (up to the end of November for 2011) we saw over 75,251 performances, across 135 events putting over 970,846 images for sale on line. That's 19% more people at 12% more events than last year with 50% more images making it onto the gallery than last year. That worked out at 26% more images per runner at an average of 12.9 each, of which on average there were 614 runners per race.

Still with it ?

Additionally in 2011, we covered 24 events where over 120,845 images were put on line for free download (worth £5.45 each !) with over 6368 runners getting almost 19 images free each - good value for the event organisers and the competitors, with free download rates in the ~80% range for most events.

Caged like Monkeys in the office we work long into the night (2am mostly) to get images online for your delight the next day.

And now there is over 7600 of you on the blog subscribers list (it would be many more but they didn't click on the email anti-spam sign-up confirmation when they got it), I have to watch what I say here. Allegedly.

It's not all free !
Work wise we have put in over 941 hours attending events, and more than 1600 hours in the office to bring you the images, that's up a total of 29% on last year - and I'm not including travel time, preparation time or other general office admin, marketing and blog writing in that total time - it's just time spent getting and putting images on line for you !
Also we now have a team of three image hardened individuals who work on Sundays and Mondays going through all the pictures we take to make sure only the finest quality images get shown to you - none of your out of focus blurry stuff on a small preview that you can't really tell anything with, but I won't mention those other companies...

Hurry now to get those photos from this years races so you have something to show your friends at Christmas when they ask what on earth you've been doing and why haven't you seen them all year.

Next Weekend is mostly -
Saturday - The Brutal 10 - race 3 - http://www.brutalrun.co.uk/ simple but brilliant off road racing
Sunday - Mince Pie 10 at Seaford http://www.seafordstriders.org.uk/mincepie.html you win a mincepie and a sense of self worth.

So until next time,
Anthony

The current gallery list, in reverse order - the July events will be leaving us very soon.

November	Race Name	Pictures
27/11/2011	now live - The 3xMolehills 2011	3700 files
20/11/2011	now live - Brighton 10k 2011	23783 files
13/11/2011	now live - Poppy Half 2011	5445 files
13/11/2011	now live - Phoenix Preston Park Races 2011	1832 files
13/11/2011	now live - Grand Union Canal Half 2011	10874 files
12/11/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 2 2011	2313 files
06/11/2011	now live - Veteran Car Run 2011	12618 files
06/11/2011	now live - Loseley 10k 2011 - free downloads	10932 files
05/11/2011	now live - Future Car Challenge Run 2011	313 files
October	Race Name	Pictures
30/10/2011	now live - Barns Green Half Marathon 2011	29112 files
22/10/2011	now live - Beachy Head Marathon 2011	35653 files
16/10/2011	now live - Abingdon Marathon 2011	28756 files
16/10/2011	now live - Kellystore Guildford 2011 - free downloads	4001 files
15/10/2011	now live - Brutal 10 Race 1 2011	1505 files
09/10/2011	now live - Petts Wood 10k 2011	3895 files
09/10/2011	now live - Givaudan Ashford 10k 2011	6728 files
09/10/2011	now live - Badger Half 2011	5570 files
09/10/2011	now live - Herts 10k 2011	20207 files
08/10/2011	now live - Dusk till Dawn 2011	2355 files
08/10/2011	now live - XT MTB Enduro and 10k 2011 - free downloads	5459 files
02/10/2011	now live - Rowers Revenge 2011	2277 files
02/10/2011	now live - 7Oaks Junior Aquathlon 2011	1548 files
02/10/2011	now live - Wimbledon 10k October 2011	3318 files
02/10/2011	now live - Reading O2O 10k 2011	4692 files
02/10/2011	now live - Basingstoke Half Marathon 2011	26329 files
September	Race Name	Pictures
25/09/2011	now live - Tonbridge Half Marathon 2011	13510 files
25/09/2011	now live - Hursley 10k 2011	4856 files
25/09/2011	Now live - The Big 10k 2011	3618 files
24/09/2011	now live - XT Festival 2011 - free downloads	11889 files
18/09/2011	now live - Pilgrims Half and Full Marathon 2011	18163 files
18/09/2011	now live - Kellystore Joyden Woods 10k - free downloads	2071 files
11/09/2011	now live - Bacchus Full and Half Marathon 2011	7881 files
11/09/2011	now live - Chestnut Tree House 10k 2011	12896 files
04/09/2011	now live - Newbury Tri 2011	4290 files
04/09/2011	now live - Maidenhead Half Marathon 2011	20355 files
04/09/2011	now live - ETL Spitfire 20+ Tempest 10	7022 files
August	Race Name	Pictures
28/08/2011	now live - Bexhill Tri 2011	3692 files
28/08/2011	now live - Arundel 10k- free downloads	6327 files
27/08/2011	now live - Hard as Snails - free downloads	5693 files
21/08/2011	now live - Ringmer Tri 2011	2142 files
20/08/2011	now live - F3 Dorney Triathons 2011	12324 files
20/08/2011	now live - Pride Run 2011	11392 files
20/08/2011	now live - Big South Swim 2011	1089 files
14/08/2011	now live - REP Birdman Swim 2011	1409 files
07/08/2011	now live - Milland Valley 2011	3868 files
July	Race Name	Pictures
30/07/2011	now live - REP BTF Aquathlon 2011- free downloads	2843 files
27/07/2011	now live - Bexhill 5k	3258 files
24/07/2011	now live - Down Tow Up Flow Half 2011	13058 files
24/07/2011	now live - Downland Running Festival 2011	2240 files

3xMolehills 2011 gallery now live

2011-11-28T15:38:00.001Z

The gallery for the Events to Live Three Molehills is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/3-Molehills-2011-official-photos

The main race website is here http://www.eventstolive.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=13&Itemid=26

The race starts at Denbies vinyard in Dorking http://www.denbies.co.uk/ and goes off around three of the local hills (Molehills) in three separate legs. Some people do it as one big race, around a half marathon in length, and some do it as a relay team - the split is about 50-50. This was the second running of this event, and it's rather unusual format, but numbers were up from last year.

Waking up yesterday I cursed the innacuracies of the weather forecast as I stared into the gloom of blustering rain and wind. Neither help for race photography, which is an outdoors occupation with suitable clothing to hand at all times. Meeting up with Tony the other photographer who was to cover the 2nd leg and the finish we headed inside for shelter and a cuppa and to check-in with the race organisers Alan and Nicky.

It was during the cuppa that we looked up through the glass pyramid roof in the middle of the Vinyards restuarant to discuss if that really was blue sky we were looking at. It was. A check of the rain radar on the Met office website confirmed the rain had blown through. Nice !

So off to posts, up box hill, onto leg 2 and then back at the edge of the vineyard for leg 3 and to the end of the hill at the finish. Someone please get on with inventing the Tardis.

Here's a few photos to sum it up:

Denbies from the Top of Box Hill. To the side, you can't get this in the background for the photos.

Race start from the Vinyard off on Leg 1 and a lot of thumbs-up

Dave ran the first leg with a wink and a thumbs up

smiles, which continued all the way round - we have proof

a cheeky hitch-kick bravely executed on a downhill

Definetly good going.

A perfect sunday for running

This years Movember winner

Over the edge at Box Hill to return to the race HQ

I have no idea what this means, but it's quite amusing !

Into the woods on Leg 2 and Double thumbs from David, Hi David !! #bighair

Up and out from the vinyard for the last time on leg 3

eye popping hard work up the hill

Flying back down to the finish

victory airplane into the finish

Is this the one you meant David ?

picturesque running through the woods

See - she was still smiling at the end !

Overall a warm, friendly day which was considerably better than last years freezing (ice layer in 3 minutes on top of camera bag on Box Hill in 2010) conditions, no idea on how the new relay hand over location worked compared to last year, but it was probably better for facilities and keeping a great atmosphere going.

That's it for the Events To Live races this year - it's been a busy one with Alan and Nicky bringing on a whole set of competitive and warm events for people to enjoy.
Don't forget to get your race pictures from the other races they organised this year if you did one of them - The ones still live (not quite yet archived) are:

BADGER Half:
http://bit.ly/BadgerHalf-2011-Photos
BACCHUS :
http://bit.ly/ETL-Bacchus-Half-2011-Photos
TEMPEST and SPITFIRE:
http://bit.ly/ETL-Tempest-Spitfire-Sept-2011-photos

Demolition of Broadbridge Heath Leisure centre and Athletics Track
Finally - if you are in Sussex and have heard that Horsham Council has recommended a demolition of their only Sports Centre in Horsham - and as a runner you feel that this is wrong, then please write to them objecting to their plans. It goes to the Councillors vote on Wednesday December the 21st and unfortunately without a lot of public input is likely to turn into a "vote as you're told to" council decision. Your Sports Facilities need your help !

Apparently the council have not maintained it effectively in past years (failed a stich in time to save nine), and now it has to be urgently repaired to keep it safe and functional - which is an unbudgeted £1.5m. To avoid the bill, they have a report that designates the Crawley K2 running track as "the local facility", and therefore they can demolish the running track and sport centre due to "overcapacity of facilities in the north of the district" - I don't know how local their idea of "local" is but K2 is 9.5miles away - so you won't be cycling down the dual carriageway anytime soon to the other "local track" - so its a decision that will kill the fitness of future generations of the children of Horsham, let alone the wider adult community, and the county.

Crawley doesn't have an indoor 50m track - something unique to Broadbridge heath - home to many of the counties best athletes and certainly when I frequented it - three world class athletes for winter training. (across pole vault, 400m and 800m) although its destruction will cement my title as the Sussex County Indoor 50m hurdles champion forever, it's not quite the way I'd like it to happen.

So I urge you to write or email to the councillor who is Jonathan Chowen, who is the Horsham Council Cabinet member responsible for Leisure. His email is Jonathan.Chowen@horsham.gov.uk or his address is Old Lock House, Lock, Partridge Green, Horsham, RH13 8EG.

Please write NOW - especially if you are not a Horsham resident and bring valuable custom into their area due to the running track, or if you have anything to do with the local sports, compete against Horsham Joggers (anyone who runs in the Sussex 10k and Sussex Leagues - you know the ones I mean!) or compete at the track or have raced against Horsham Blue Star AC - this decision will affect you and the makeup of sports facilities across Sussex.
There is no hint or suggestion of a replacement facility - this is going to be a one-way decision and I urge you to all make sure your voices are heard - use it or lose it, ineveitably to houses.

---------------------------------------

No races next weekend so it's been hijacked by pre-christmas relatives and family stuff. My first sunday off covering events since Easter and that's what I get...

Otherwise, in two weeks time on the 10th December is the Brutal 10 - Race 3 which is at Bordon, so get yourself out and down for that - it's always good clean fun !

until next time
Anthony

Brooks Brighton 10k - now live

2011-11-21T17:07:00.001Z

The Race Gallery for the 28th Brooks Brighton 10k is now live and online here with over 23,000 images:
http://bit.ly/Brighton10k-2011-official-photos

The race results and information are available here:
http://www.brooksbrighton10k.co.uk/results

A record start number of 2724 willing participants lined up for near-perfect conditions along the south coast on Brightons Madeira Drive for a quick trip to the Marina, no stopping for shopping, back past the pier to check out the tea and coffee on the Kings Lawns and then a short stride back to the Finish line ready for fish and chips and a well earnt drink.

This years winner was Ben Whitby from Windsor Slough and Eton who did the grand tour in 29:52 (only 33 seconds off last years fast time), and the womens winner was the pre-race favourite Agnieszka Ciolek in 33:30 16 seconds off last years course record.

A full report of the race is here on the Sussex AA website:
http://www.sussexathletics.org.uk/news.php?id=1078

This is basically the flattest fastest and most PB'able course that we cover - so I hope you can find yourself your best PB face photo to keep as a lasting memory !

Apologies for the vast number of photos below, but well, its fun.

I surrender ! - pre race nerves kicked in for one

Safe start - from the front in perfect conditions

The scenic view

and off to the marina

arty blurry start line action stuff

Hi Jon!

Please donate to Joe's charity - to help him get some shoes

Darren was in two minds as to which side of the camera he should be on

Good looking support crowd gets a whistle

Doh I was supposed to be in Gosport for the Half

Hi Jon !

Hi Heather !

oooh Flags

Brave Movember man runs through Black Rock

Equally Brave

Mens Winner, decent airplane finish, sub 30 too.

Ladies Winner

Some weird movember move

high 5 finishes

Look - you finished !

The legend that is Jacko

Tight finishing for 404th place

Raaar !

faller at the last after unintentional interference

Hi Steve !

Hi Tom !

happy victory wave

I personally wouldn't run around holding up a number 69 like this.

The Boss.

Many thanks to the Scouts who did a great job with flyers at the end of the race to tell everyone about the race photos. We managed to put over 23,000 online in the gallery for you to see - so I hope you all get a chance to see your PB faces !

Big hello to Chris Carter and all the team from Brighton and Hove City athletic club that make this event possible and inviting us to cover the race every year for the past 8 years.

Until next time
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

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Poppy Half, Preston Park and Grand Union Canal Half - galleries now live

2011-11-15T13:30:00.001Z

A busy weekend with a triumvirate of events on Rememberance Sunday with the Poppy Half Marathon in Bexhill, the Purple Patch Running Grand Union Canal Half marathon, and the long standing Preston Park Road Races in Brighton.

Here are the links to the race galleries:

Grand Union Half:
http://bit.ly/Grand-union-half-official-race-photos-2011
Results: On Sport Systems

Poppy Half:
http://bit.ly/poppy-half-marathon-official-race-photos-2011
Results : On Poppy Half Website

Preston Park Races:
http://bit.ly/Phoenix-Preston-park-Road-races-2011-photos
Results up mid week: http://www.brightonphoenix.org.uk/

Here's a gallery selection from the action on Sunday, wherever the team were we had glorious warm autumn weather and lovely sunshine for running in. (not necessarily lovely sun for taking photos - but that's a photographers thing). Not like Novemeber at all really.

Strong finishing

Raaaar!!

No Surrender

The poppy theme was sportingly adapted

Hero Daddy

Dawn gives it grit

Prize for the most poppies overall

A peacefull start to the day

Lead bike coming through

Off up and over the canal bridges - whilst a flat route, add a bit of a hill

This is what a photographer looks like when Running - Hi Tom!

Some people make ti look easy

V for Victory finish

Close and competitive finishing

Capturing the moment at the arch

A double Vittel finish wave

High-5 for Dad

Hard finishing, pushing it to the line

The nice thing about the Preston Park races is that every year you see the talent of the future get faster and faster. And my daughter also now runs (in the u9's) every year. So watch out (in 12 years time..)

Fast finishing

Crawley AC put in a good team

Mass start for the U9 race - the talent of the future

Slightly taller than the pictures I have of her from years gone by!

Power finish ! Raa !

Never ever let your clubmate beat you. Ever. Especially for the 1 mile.

A Strong Crawley finish

A good days running all round

u17 Boys winner - watch out when he hits the Senior Mens ranks...

With the Brooks Brighton 10k this sunday to mark the end of the running season - it will be a few days off at last (not had a break 24/7 for the past 4 months) so looking forwards to good weather and fish and chips on the sea front.

Until next time,
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Brutal 10, race 2 - now live

2011-11-14T01:43:00.001Z

The race gallery for the second of the most Brutal 10 races this year is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/brutal10-v2-R2-2011-race-photos

Another tough race in the Brutal series. With a course on army training grounds which takes over 7 hours to mark out, test and check (yep all the bogs and water hazards are checked beforehand by the Race Director personally!) you know you're going to face a tough but fair challenge.

With the first 2k straight uphill, then 2k of bogs and water, then 4k more of up and down hill around the creeks of the hill leaving a 2k downhill finish (via another marsh) you get the picture...so here's a few to help you :

As usual the Canine race set off 10 minutes early , but good to see many of them giving it a go through the water this race.

Run dammit. err ok.

For some reason the Dogs didn't go as deep as the runners

Post swim victory

Muddy Brutal fun

Team effort all the way round

Excellent technique, so we opened the gate for everyone else

Downhill from 9k to the marsh near the finish

Still pulling him home

Always a good chat with the marshals, you never know when one might be an ex international...

Great Stuff to Colin, Dave and Allan for yet another great Brutal Race - if you fancy giving it a go - try the one at Bordon down the A3 in December. 10am start so you get a lie in too !
http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/events_brutal-run.html

The event even has a facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/brutal10
comments please !

Right, two half marathons and a Race meeting to catalogue and index tomorrow - about another 19,000 images. I might be some time since we do it all by hand. Yikes.

Until then, keep training

Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Loseley 10k and 4k - free downloads - Now live

2011-11-11T21:05:00.000Z

The free digital downloads for the Loseley 10k and 4k run are now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/Loseley10k-2011-official-race-photos

The official race webpages can be found here: http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/events_loseley-run.html as well as the results.

Pre-race huddle

Pre-Race warm up stretches

10k started off competitively

4k start - equally competitive

High levels of family participation and Dad example setting !

The relief of finishing

Team finish !

Until next time !

Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2011 - now live

2011-11-11T16:07:00.001Z

This years gallery for the 2011 London to Brighton Veteran Car run is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/Official-LBVCR-Photos-2011

With over 12,000 photos from 8 different locations this is the largest coverage of the historic event we have ever put forwards. With archive galleries since 2004 we now have 8 years of runs for you to browse and buy !
Official finishers will all receive their commerative finish line arch print with their finishers certificate within the next few weeks, and reprints and additional photos from around the course can be viewed and ordered online here.
A small selection of photos are attached below to give a flavour of the day, you can always search the gallery with "misc" to see other general images we have picked for the day.

The organisers website can be found here: www.veterancarrun.com for additional information, press releases and reports.

This years run was marked by the appearance of the first ever Benz car ever made 125 years ago, driven by his granddaughter which crossed Westminster Bridge and then after a quick lift also did the last few miles of the Run in Brighton.

HRH Prince Michael of Kent in Car Reg AA11 leaves Hyde Park

Jutta Benz 1886 Benz Patent-Motorwagen created by her great grandfather Carl Benz, which heralded the invention of the motor car 125 years ago.

Car 88, a Porsche no less..

When technologies collide - a pre-emptive call to the RAC on Hammer Hill ?

Crossing the Bridge over to Lambeth and the A23

The Salvesen Steamer (run number 6) made it by 2:30pm this year - a personal best

Ray Tindall (Car 401), the headline sponsor didn't make it to the end this year, but he did cross Westminster Bridge in style

Nigel Mansell drives the Mercedes (Car 234) over Westminster bridge with the MP and Minister for Transport Mike Penning and his enthusiastically waving passenger

Genevive , Car 497, the Runs regular film star, out in the countryside

Finishing infront of the new wheel in Brighton

A timeless photo from this years run

"And this is what I did at the traffic lights" Mike Penning comments on Nigel Mansells' Driving

when Technologies collide - Sat Nav speedometer

Always Travel in style, even when being pushed.

Congratualtions to Roger Etcell and the Team at Motion Works on another well orchestrated event - with the future car challenge on the saturday, new Gala dinners to take place as well as the new Regent Street Motor show the whole weekend has grown considerably over the past two years. Full information on the weekend can be found on the event website here: http://www.veterancarrun.com/

Untill next time, drive safely, normal running race events service resumes shortly !
Anthony

Barns Green Half Marathon 2011- now live

2011-11-01T12:00:00.001Z

This years Barns Green Half Marathon official race gallery is now live and online here:
http://bit.ly/barns-green-race-pictures-2011

Just under 1500 runners lined up to start this years Barns Green Half Marathon. With no hyperspeed entries from abroad the gauntlet was thrown down amongst the local clubs and challengers to see who was going to take the honours this year.

The full results can be found here on the Sport Systems site: http://www.sportsystems.co.uk/ss/results/Barns%20Green%20Half%20Marathon/634

A fast start from the line for the leading pack

Not since Saun Baldock at the Olympic 400m heats has someone gone off so hard and so fast from the gun

The chasing pack caught him at 4 miles

"We're the Horsham Joggers club" "No ! we're the running club of Horsham". Local rivalry being discussed...

Good support from the sides to keep their parents on the run

Strong running into the 7 mile point

Yes, I'll do anything for love too, but I won't do *that*

Happy 50th Birthday Jackie

It was an emotional race for some

Thumbs up all round

All smiles for James Baker with half a mile to go. It's easy at the front

It's sometimes painful if you're not at the front, no matter how fit you are.

Not as painful as forgetting your safety pins and wearing a tri-belt instead (which are useless and not fit for purpose by the way).

Badges instead of safety pins - far more fun

Vince, you're mad. But we love you.

All ready at the finish for the victor

Uncertain of exactly what happened James crossed the line

Well done James, and assured run for 1:10:31 and an age grading of 84.59, that's 5min 21sec per mile average.

Handy link to a half marathon pace calculator for you: http://www.users.on.net/~klima/rkcalc_hmi.htm

Claire Grima won the female race from Hercules Wimbledon in 1:22:45 and an age grade of 79.48

Victory was everyones to be honest

Age grading winner in 1:26:20 Barry Blackwell Vet60+ age grading 84.85 in 65th place. Proof that running keeps you young. Even Jim couldn't keep up (still fresh from Abingdon)

Still not sure if it was a wig or not ?

Very well done to Vernon and the organising committee and another successful race expertly organised. It's an honour and a pleasure to cover this every year and always great that our images get used for the cover in the official program and inside - you can read it online here:
http://issuu.com/cataract/docs/halfmarathon

The official race report is on the Barns Green website here: http://www.barnsgreen-half.org.uk/2011_race_report.pdf

Next weekend
It's the Veteran Car Run on Sunday, where I'll be stood at the finish line for 7 hours without a break if anyone fancies joining me for that ?, or if you would rather do some running then I can suggest the excellent Loseley 10k - off road trail race at Loseley house near Guildford. More information here: http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/events_loseley-run.html

until next time
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Beachy Head Marathon 2011 - gallery now live

2011-10-25T19:02:00.000+01:00

The 2011 Gallery for Beachy Head Marathon is now live and on line here :

http://bit.ly/Beachy-Head-Marathon-Official-Race-Photos-2011

On a bright and sunny day - one of the best conditions ever held for the Marathon over 1300 explorers set off for a tour of the Sussex Downs. There are over 35,000 images now online - our largest gallery ever ! So enjoy and make sure you get yours before we run out of space on the server and have to archive them.

The start up the hill, Stuart near the front looked to be in good shape

Wendy gave a wave on the way near Jevington

Fresh from the Hungry Monk at Jevington

First big hill elation

Rhino, fresh from gladiators, keeping fit

The stunning views can do this. Make sure you run with people you like

The route in the background (from top right)

Walkers were allowed ski poles, but no skis. I'm uncertain of the advantage. Some just used one pole.

Descent into Alfriston

Safety balance deployed on the descent

Skipping ?!?!

The weather was clearly having an effect

The white flag of surrender - before the 7 sisters

The bus stop is at the bottom near the canoe centre

The Rhino ate the skis. allegedly.

"Eric and Ernie" plyometric skipping up Beachy Head - good for speed work

The Hills were alive with the sound of.....

Never Surrender !

Walking with friends, no number

Numbers can alienate those around you - be careful how you show them off.

"Bus schedule from Beachy Head to Eastbourne please"

"What do you mean all the taxis from Beachy Head to Eastbourne are booked ?"

"What do you mean France will play good rugby tomorrow, I don't understand ?" *gallic shrug*

"What rugby world cup ?" Steve Nimmo SA winning in 3:02:24

First Lady Susie Casebourne in 3:36:57

Fastest Fancy Dress - The Reindeer 5:57:06

Fittleworth Flyers up to their old tricks again to avoid any overtakers

Well done to everyone involved, from the services, marshals, volunteers, timekeepers, and of course the competitors on making it round. 1299 finishers in total which is one of the highest turn-out %rates that we have seen at an event this year - especially for a marathon.

Right, off to ice this hand for trigger and indexing RSI, catch up on the Rugby World Cup finals, Spooks, Have I got news for you, and did I miss Merlin too ?

Enjoy, any questions just email me/feedback link, and don't forget to share with your friends on facebook and twitter etc for free.

Barns Green Half next weekend - a sprint by comparison - enjoy ! http://www.barnsgreen-half.org.uk/index.html I think they will be taking entries on the day - and don't forget the clocks go back !

Until next time
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Abingdon Marathon 2011 now live

2011-10-19T14:08:00.000+01:00

Abingdon Marathon 2011

Pictures from the 2011 Abingdon marathon are now online and available here:
http://bit.ly/abingdon-marathon-2011-race-photos

On a crisp morning with a track temperature of 4DegC at 8:30 am and a 15minute earlier start time of 8:45 to avoid clashing with the Mayors favourite event later on in the town the 30th running of the Abingdon marathon gathered and then got underway. It was perfect weather for marathon racing - so a lot of PB attempts were going to be made, the only question for some was would the body break down.

Going through the Abbey arch again this year instead of across the town market square, the race does a 4 mile loop to the East and then south from the bridge to a loop towards Drayton and Milton for two loops and then a return to the track. Here's a Map: http://g.co/maps/sa6qr

Here's a quick selection from the 28,000 now online indexed and catalogued over the two days since the race took place:

A clean start this year with perfect running temperatures

The full starting line

A brave marshal protecting the bollard

Flying through the Abbey Gate

Ave Caeser

Out along the river to the start of the loop

Free jelly babies on offer from the public supporters

The real Pain of winning

First lady in 2:53:55

Jim caught me by surprise - not just his time, he lives round the corner from me!

what have I done ?!?!?

The Sub 4 victory Punch !

Happiness is common when running

Hanging out with 300m to go

Eyeing a finishing time final lap

Paul delivers the finishing honours

Worth it !

A fantastic race, perfect weather, PBs all over the place, perfect marshalling, great friendships and familiar faces - things that make the Abingdon Marathon unique and a great race to have a go at (if you're into that sort of thing) and like a flat fast course.

Well done everyone -
http://bit.ly/abingdon-marathon-2011-race-photos

And there's a bit of a video here: http://bit.ly/Abingdon-marathon-video-slideshow-2011

Enjoy and until next year, or Beachy Head if you're there on Saturday,
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Brutal 10 race 1, 2011 now live

2011-10-16T01:06:00.001+01:00

The gallery for the Brutal 10 is now live and on line here: http://bit.ly/brutal10-v2-R1-2011-race-photos

As I'm writing this sat in bed at a B&B in Abingdon (the Abbey if you want to know) not sleeping as I should be in preparation for coverage of tomorrows Abingdon Marthon, you'll forgive me for keeping things brief (you're probably thanking me).

To be honest there wasn't a great number of competitors at this first Brutal, but the quality was high and in temperatures indicated as 2C when I was driving there, I can't blame them. In the words of one competitor - it was too cold for racing, but her excuse was she had just been doing a triathlon in Vegas, where it's a bit warmer. Welcome to Longmore ! (Woolmer actually) and it's supposed to be cold - it's a Brutal run, and the patches of frost on the tussocks of heather out on the course showed it.

I will only tease you with two images from the gallery as I'm remote from the office and I've plucked them off the server. Suffice to say it's always cleaner to be the first person through a ditch of muddy water, and it smells less. The benefits of being in the lead are numerous, almost worth all the hard training !

If you have to walk in a bog, be the first to do it

Running was easy, if you could find flat ground

Well done to everyone who made the effort to get up and out on Saturday to the Brutal. I strongly recommend the events - expertly organised, safe (yet crazy), very well marked courses (it took them 6 hrs to put up all the signs on friday!), always good parking and facilities, and the Currywurst sausages from Tom in the catering van are to die for.
Go here for more information on the next two races in the series - http://www.allabouttriathlons.co.uk/events_brutal-run.html

Gallery housekeeping
On other notes - if you find that your image has been captioned "archive flagged" as well as showing the race number, please be aware that it can be removed at any time, and usually within 48hrs at the latest, so don't miss out as these images are deleted permanently from the gallery.

Right, I'd better get some sleep before having to do 6hrs continuous work at the pointy end of the camera for the marathon. Good luck to everyone at Abingdon if you've read this before the race, I look forwards to seeing you all at the finish (and around the course too). The weather forecast is perfect for marathoning...

until next time
Anthony

Click here for our race finding link page on the blog

Stuff to help you
StrideUK
StrideUK	Want to increase performance and prevent injury ? look better in your pictures and run a bit faster ? Contact Mitch - at StrideUK for video gait analysis and running technique advice, exercise and improvement.
Race Finding links
Who ?	Just click on the Logo
Run Britain - UK Athletics
The Sussex Race Planner	Sussex Races
Active Network
Run 247
Runners World
Running Diary

Sussex Sport Photography.com - News Blog

F3 Events 2012 - 10k and Duathlon now live

10k: http://bit.ly/F3-Events-10k-1-2012-race-photos

Duathlon:http://bit.ly/F3-Winter-Duathlon-1-2012-race-photos

G3 January Race 1 - Free Downloads

Sussex County XC Champs 2012 now live

Brutal 10 - 2012 race 1 - now live

Serpentine NYD 10k 2012

RPAC Holly Run 2011 now live

The Seaford Striders Mince Pie 10, 2011

Brutal 10 Race 3 now live

Year End Review and Christmas 2011

3xMolehills 2011 gallery now live

Brooks Brighton 10k - now live

Poppy Half, Preston Park and Grand Union Canal Half - galleries now live

Brutal 10, race 2 - now live

Loseley 10k and 4k - free downloads - Now live

London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2011 - now live

Barns Green Half Marathon 2011- now live

Beachy Head Marathon 2011 - gallery now live

Abingdon Marathon 2011 now live

Brutal 10 race 1, 2011 now live

10k:
http://bit.ly/F3-Events-10k-1-2012-race-photos

Duathlon:
http://bit.ly/F3-Winter-Duathlon-1-2012-race-photos