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
It’s been a very quiet week, on the athletics news front, but I wanted to still send out the email update.
Club training latest
I haven’t got any significant update in terms of use of the track and Tonbridge School Fields, beyond what was set up last week. By all accounts any training that has taken place at the facilities in small groups has worked well.
Please remember that for both track and the fields a booking system is in place, through coaches.
Below the email I have repeated the key pieces of information from last week.
Training for the youngest members is so difficult due to the lack of toilet facilities currently.
Additionally, in terms of competition, although there are dates being discussed, they are very much dependent on government guidelines changing.
Virtual Events
Some virtual events can be found here – https://data.opentrack.run/x/?type=VIRTUAL
Track Coach Clubhouse podcast
Episode 4 is available, where Andy Poppleton, Lewis Church and myself talk about coaching styles.
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66spgqOCELU&t=36s
Apple podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/track-coach-clubhouse/id1513191764
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/episode/7JpNEfp2V4pgrEY9Uc0dmA?si=WC03e7C1TyCxLcK6UoQ_1g
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/ .