This is a copy of the weekly email sent out to the distance runners of Tonbridge AC, from Mark Hookway. Some of the subjects maybe of interest to others.
Introduction
I hope that everyone is keeping safe and well.
I would just like to address some comments made after last week’s email, regarding the school barring TAC and runners from using the school fields. This was subsequent to a report from a member of the public, who observed that social distancing and guidelines were not being kept by groups. This is definitely not the fault of the person who reported it, as the responsibility lies with us as a club and our members. Hands were held up admitting that we were careless in how we were organised.
It is down to each and every one of us to be responsible for following the guidelines. Just because others are acting irresponsibly doesn’t give us the ok to do likewise.
After some dialogue with the school, by Iain Presnell, we have been given the ok to train on the fields once again. However this time with some strict controls, such as having designated areas for groups and having a ‘COVID Officer’ available at all times. Please read below carefully.
Just like with the track all group training should be booked through coaches, who will log onto a shared Google Drive.
Also please could nobody go near to the track facilities, unless they are part of a training group, booked through a coach. This is very important as we clearly do not wish to lose use of the track. This includes leaving gear and going for a run from the side of the track.
Current TAC position
Field Use
This is back in use as explained above.
The field is divided into 5 areas
Grass Track = GTPump House field = PHHockey Field. To left of gate behind all weather hockey pitch = HMiddle Field to left of the grass 400m and public footpath to style = MFFar Field over bridge = FF
Each must be booked for use
Track Use
The track is available in a very restricted manner, with one coach being allowed to book use with five athletes, whilst maintaining social distancing.
A timetable of sessions is available to coaches, in order to book these centrally.
We are trying to protect track use at busy times (Tuesday/Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings) for more senior sprinters, hurdlers and field eventers.
There are no toilets available and we are told that there will not be until the centre is allowed to open.
The current guidelines allow six people to meet, from different households, whilst remaining one or more metres apart.
Please liaise with your designated coach, should you require more information.
Use of the track is solely through booking with a coach and dependent on a coach being present.
Field UseThe fields are split into 5 areas for booking by coaches. The coaches will designate a time and the first coach booking is the designated ‘COVID Officer’ responsible for keeping an eye on all groups and gatherings.
Use of the field by individuals is allowed, but when more athletes gather we must book via a coach.
Please do use ‘common sense’ to avoid what may be perceived by a member of the public as a large gathering of athletes. We do not want our use of the fields (or track) revoked.
I advise all members to read the latest (June 19) from England Athletics at https://www.englandathletics.org/athletics-and-running/news/guidance-update-step-2/ .
Kent Cross Country League Secretary – Volunteer needed
I am pleased to say that John Harley has offered to help with the Kent Cross Country League.
Should anyone else be willing to get involved just a little then I am sure the league organisers would be pleased. Just let me know.
Virtual Events – results
British Masters Virtual 5k road relays, 14th to 20th June
The National Veterans 5km relay was a great success and results can be found here –https://data.opentrack.run/en-gb/x/2020/GBR/bmaf-virtual-rr/event/1/1/1/Put TONB in the search facility to see a list of Tonbridge AC performances.
The fastest TAC were Ben Cole (M35) with 15.04 and Helen Gaunt (W40) with 18.13
More than 3200 runners logged a time and TAC’s Russell McIntyre put in hours of work, answering queries, monitoring and compiling results. Well done Russell and I know it was greatly appreciated by runners around the country. More than £12k was raised for charity.
No TAC team featured in the podium positions.
British Milers Club Virtual 3km Challenge, 18th to 21st JuneThe details can be found here – https://data.opentrack.run/x/2020/GBR/bmc3k/Chris Olley was third fastest overall with 8.18, being 4 seconds away from the fastest time.Harriet Woolley with 10.27 was the fastest TAC female
Some of the other virtual events can be found here – https://data.opentrack.run/x/?type=VIRTUAL
Please ask immediately should you have any questions or require any further help.
Best wishes
Mark