John Roberts 5k Series 2025
1 February 2025 - By Jodee Mayer
For our newer members, John Roberts was a long serving member of WRC who sadly passed in 2018. For avid readers of the Club Records page he will be a well known name; he still holds
- three records in the 55-59 category; and
- three in the 65-69
and held many more under Owen Dare and Mark Austin have taken them in recent years.
John was at one time WRC’s only qualified coach. You can thank him for over 30 years of Thursday evening speed sessions!
The series was named in recognition of his significant contribution and the introduction of regular internal 5k races and time trials into our training schedule. If you have a few moments you can read more here (and spot some familiar faces!): https://www.withamrc.org.uk/club-news/john-roberts/
The 5k series
The John Roberts 5k series (which you may hear called the JR5ks) consists of four 5k runs held across the summer. The final race is a handicap. Based on performance at the first 3 races, everyone is given a staggered start time. The runner recording the average fastest time in the first 3 races starts last. The aim is all of the runners crossing the finish line together.
Awards will be given to the overall series male and female winners (from runners who participate in at least 2 races of the first three races and the handicap), but the handicap winner as well. WRC members will need to run at least 1 of the first 3 races and volunteer at another of the first 3 races to be eligible to run in the handicap.
And there are club champ points up for grabs for all WRC runners and volunteers!
Who can take part?
The series is open to all members of WRC and is free to all members.
When and where
The 5ks will replace the Thursday Speed Development Session on 4 dates over the summer. The races take place in Kelvedon, finishing at The Angel pub for a well deserved drink and some food if you wish.
The races will start at around 7.30, with registration beforehand at the Angel, on the following dates:
- Race 1 – 22nd May
- Race 2 – 05th June
- Race 3 – 26th June
- Handicap finale – 03rd July
Volunteering
As always these events wouldn’t be able to run without support from volunteers on marshaling, timekeeping, set-up etc. As above, WRC members will not be eligible to run in the handicap race unless you volunteer at least 1 of the first 3 races. Please look out for a volunteer post ahead of each of the races.
We look forward to providing you more details and seeing you there soon. If you have any questions before please speak to Jodee.
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