Photo – Chris Hogwood and James Kingston
Chris Hogwood and James Kingston , from Tonbridge Athletic Club, collected two prestigious awards on Friday night, at the Kent Athletics Awards Evening. Hogwood received the county Coach of the Year Award, whilst Kingston the Male Athlete of the Year.
Hogwood has held a key coaching role at the club for the last fifteen years, mainly focused on the under 13 age group, overseeing sprints and field events. Additionally, he has team managed the under 13 and 15 squads at the club, leading them to a national final this year. He is also one of the club’s current Welfare Officers. Kingston won his award, following an unprecedented cross-country season, which saw him capture a rare treble, with wins at the Kent, Southern and National Championships.
Smith wins Marden Half Marathon
Jay Smith was a convincing winner of the Marden Half Marathon, on Sunday, finishing in 75.04, almost two minutes ahead of the runner-up.
Maria Heslop finished as third female home, at the Crowborough 10k road race, also on Sunday, running 41.19, on the notoriously hilly course.
At the Brighton 10k, strong winds prevented many running fast times. The first Tonbridge runners home were Steve Strange who finished 15th in 32.29, whilst Helen Gaunt was 8th in the women’s race in 37.30.
Tonbridge took one men’s and one women’s team to the British Veterans Road Relay Championships, held at Mallory Park, Leicestershire. The women’s over 45 age group team of Grazia Manzotti, Theresa White and Pearl Pearce, placed 8th in their category. The men finished 10th, in their over 45 age group event, represented by Tony Bennett, Richard Preston, Mark Pitcairn-Knowles and Phil Coleman.
Above – Jay Smith on his way to winning the Marden Half Marathon