2022 John Roberts Summer 5k Series

19 April 2022 - By Ben O'leary

What is the John Roberts Summer 5k Series?

Every year (with a couple of recent obvious exceptions), the Club holds four 5k runs across the summer.

But there’s more to it; this is not just four races, this is a series! Meaning there will also be overall winners for those who participate in at least three of the races, and special mentions for improving runners, not to mention club champs points!

But there’s still more to it! The final race will be a handicap race. This means that, based on performances in the previous 3 races, all participants will be given a separate start time. This staggered start should see the whole club crossing the finish line at the exact same time. The winners then will be those who can put in the most relative effort!

This has been a well attended series in previous years and has a great atmosphere so come along, compete, chat, support.

 

When is all this happening?

The Summer 5K Series traditionally uses our Summer 5k route from the top of Maldon Road in Kelvedon, ending at the Angel where the bar will be open for refreshments and food. The Angel is under new management so we are still in the process of confirming but the proposed dates are as follows:

• Race 1 – 5th May
• Race 2 – 26th May
• Race 3 – 30th June
• Handicap – 21st July

 

Sounds like you’ll be needing some help, how do I volunteer?

If you’re keen to be involved but unable/unwilling to run, we always need a good group of members and/or families to help with marshaling, timing etc. If you’re keen to help out please contact Ben O’leary or Liz Prior, look out for a “call to arms” post on the Facebook group ahead of each race, or comment below and we’ll be in touch.

Look out for volunteer info in the next couple of days for the first event.

 

Who is John Roberts?

John was a long serving member of WRC who sadly passed away in 2018.

For avid readers of the Club Records page he will be a well known name, still holding three records in the 55-59 category, six in the 60-64 and another six in the 65-69!

John was at one time WRC’s only qualified coach and you can thank him for over 30 years of Thursday evening sessions and Friday morning aches. 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: https://www.withamrc.org.uk/club-news/john-roberts/

 

More to come soon!

All the best,

Your team captains, Ben and Liz