AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Matthew Everitt October 24

Every month from December 21, the committee award now two of our members with this prestigious award for both Male & Female performance. It may be awarded for many reasons, such as effort, determination, improvement, or for supporting & representing our fantastic club . It's not about being the fastest, but for doing your best and showing true Hirstie spirit

Matthew Everitt October 24

He may be quiet but when it comes to following a training plan, Matt should be shouting from the rooftops. So dedicated to his training, this has been on his bucket list since joining the club to call himself a marathon runner. But to do it at Kielder, is fantastic and in a great time.

We are so proud of your achievement Matt, and hope you are too!

Kate McLean October 24

Matthew Everitt October 24

Kev Kairton September 24

If there was a PB for number of PB’s then Kate would have it. Phenomenal training and endurance and she really has been flying. Of course, we predicted she would do amazingly well in the Amsterdam marathon and with a sub 4 hour, she didn’t disappoint.

Outstanding running Kate well done!

Kev Kairton September 24

Alexandra Baston September 24

Kev Kairton September 24

As one of the long tenured Hirsties, Kev for many

years has attended training sessions via Zoom, but has maintained his annual Facebook subscription to the club.

But now out of running retirement, Kev has made the comeback of all comebacks, racking up PB’s at parkrun almost every week and increasing distance on weekends.

With his sidekick Joe with him at club sessions and some Parkruns, Kev really has put so much effort in with fantastic results.

Club Relays soon!!!

Well done Uncle Kev!!!

Alexandra Baston September 24

After a string of PB’s, Alexandra got yet another at the Edinburgh Women’s 10k in September.

Chasing Rob has paid dividends, pace improving all the time and is now one of our new Run Leaders so she can share her running tips with others.

Congratulations Alexandra!!

Andy Stewart August 24

Alexandra Baston September 24

If you’re going to run your first marathon, make sure you do the hilliest one you can find on the hottest day.

Military training at its best saw Andy conquer Scarfell Pike Trail marathon with 5138ft of elevation, finish in 21st place and in a time of 5:51.

No doubt his live in personal trainer helped a bit too, but what an achievement by Andy

Congratulations

Lindsay Lusher August 24

In the middle of her marathon training, a brilliant time was ran by Lindsay at the mile time trial of 7:05.

A regular at Alf’s efforts, with improvement month after month we know she will be brilliant when she completes her first marathon at Kielder as she has put so much into her preparation.

Well done Lindsay

Lee Parry July 24

Lindsay Lusher August 24

In recent months Lee has represented the club in team relays, and has consistently improved his running along the way.

Now running at a faster pace, the effort he has put in really shows and with a 10k PB at the Great North 10k in July we know he will continue to get better and better. Now go smash the GNR!

Well deserved Lee

Bethany Davison July 24

Lindsay Lusher August 24

Bethany Davison July 24

Not only has Bethany swiftly moved up from Run/Walk to Group 3, she is also the pied piper of Sunday runs. Encouraging others each week to do that bit extra and increase their mileage, she really is what this club is about.

But really this is all about the effort she has put in to her own training and improvement, and the GNR will be a breeze.

Well done Bethany

Pud Asquith June 24

Bethany Davison July 24

After some impressive months of training, healthy eating and determination Pud has improved so much. Previous months of racing put him in good stead for a super PB at Morpeth 10k, and continues to work hard for further improvement and even on his holidays!

He’s half the man he used to be, but twice the runner and always our Pud

Well done, keep off the bread!

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Louise Stewart June 24

Those little legs have certainly picked up sone pace lately. She was on fire at Blaydon and the first Hirstie lady home, and again representing the club at Weetslade Relays she made that mountain look like a molehill with her speedy performance.

But we have worked out her secret formula...Burgers + cake = Super Stewart!

Well done Louise!

Claire Norvell May 24

Louise Stewart June 24

Claire Norvell May 24

Some absolutely outstanding times by Claire, at both Wallsend relays, mile trial and the club relays.

Taking a new club record in the mile, and all because of hard work & attending effort sessions.

Yet another happy smiling runner, who makes it look way too easy!

Congratulations Claire

Lachlan Hughes May 24

Claire Norvell May 24

Well this one has been a long time coming, but after 3 PB’s in a row at parkrun, and great performances in both the mile trial and club relays, this really is the time to award our youngest Hughes.

He finally got the sub 25 parkrun he’s been chasing, and not as quiet as he used to be – especially when he is forced to ring the PB bell!

Great running Lachlan!

Louise Emery April 24

Lachlan Hughes May 24

Louise Emery April 24

Louise has only been a Hirstie for a few months, but has thrown herself into it. Always willing to get involved, a true team player taking part in Good Friday relays, encouraging others, joining in with non-club training runs, and took part in the Samaritans run.

She has improved so much since her first training session with us, and now comfortably runs in group 2 after progressing.

Group 1 beckons!! Well done

Scott Wilkes April 24

Lachlan Hughes May 24

Louise Emery April 24

Never mind Doctor Who… we have Doctor Wilkes.

Always at the sharp end of efforts and group 1, month on month his pace just gets faster and finally he has gained that magnificent achievement of a club record. Plus, I’ve never seen someone so excited to have cake at the end of a 5cake run.

Scott regularly represents the club in individual races or team relays, and always gives 100%.

Well done to the head of the Von Wilkes family runners

Alex Reed March 24

Joanne Masters February 24

Martin Blakelock March 24

Since moving up to J’s efforts in the last few weeks, we’ve seen Alex’s pace improve so much . Having previously represented the club at other events, Alex was a key part in the “more senior ladies” section of the Good Friday Relays, running first leg to get the team off to a fantastic start, with the team eventually winning second place ladies O50 team.

Don’t spend the £5 voucher all at once Alex!

Congratulations, you’ve had a fantastic month

Martin Blakelock March 24

Joanne Masters February 24

Martin Blakelock March 24

From 2.2 miles to 34 miles, our extreme runner Martin has had his best month ever. After conquering the ever-growing distance of the Bridges to Boundaries Ultra (his first Ultra), to then representing the club yet again at the Good Friday relays.

Martin is a great example of how you can include club team events into your regular training, and he supports others along the way.

Well done!!

Joanne Masters February 24

Joanne has been losing pounds, and minutes! Pure determination has driven her improved pace, and has gone from Run walk to Group2!!! Yes Group 2 I said!

No going back for her now, a huge achievement and an award well deserved.

Congratulations Joanne

Clive Oliver February 24

Margaret Gilchrist January 24

Joanne Masters February 24

No red or yellow cards for Clive this month, he’s comeback from injury through run walk, regular attendee at club and now running so well in group 4. He’s PB’d at parkrun the last 2 weeks in a row, but also supporting others along the way.

At least you get a trophy this season Michael’s dad.

You can have your own identity now Clive as its so well deserved

Margaret Gilchrist January 24

How we have enjoyed seeing Margaret’s journey since joining the club. Starting off in Run/Walk, the difference is fantastic and now a regular in group 4 and making it look easy.

You can really see how happy she is to be part of the club, and we hope you are proud of what you have achieved so far Margaret.

Well done!!!

Rob Bulmer January 24

Margaret Gilchrist January 24

Never mind Tyne Bridge Harriers when you can be a Hirstie instead. He has ran some cracking races over the last few months, finishing off most recently with a brilliant 1:42 at the Brass Monkey Half Marathon. He trains so well and represents the club regularly.

Clearly all Rob needed was a good woman and change of club colours !!

Congratulations!!

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Christine McGregor December 23

From one McGregor to another….

After overcoming injury Christine has been back on form, training really well and after previous months stepping in to represent club at relays she then had a brilliant performance at the FED in December.

With marathon training about to start, we’re going to see even more from her and we know she will be ready for Manchester in April.

Well done!!

Ewan Kirk December 23

Christine McGregor December 23

Margaret Shaw November 23

As one of our younger members, Ewan has over the last few months really improved and runs with great pace. A regular at J’s efforts, represented the club in recent events and given his time to help out at the FED.

But this is for his determination and dedication to training, always looks like he enjoys his running and a great example of a team player.

Congratulations Ewan

Margaret Shaw November 23

Wonder Woman/Super Gran has had a superb month (and longer really). Running to club then doing efforts before running back home has seen Margaret’s pace rocket. Not only running well at club, she even got a PB at Newbiggin on the coldest, wettest, windiest Saturday!

It’s all down to training and wearing shorts at club when its -10c, that and plenty of holidays in between. It is easier to find her holiday snaps than running photos!!

Congratulations Margaret

Sean McGregor November 23

Margaret Shaw November 23

Sean McGregor November 23

Not only does our youngest McGregor get faster through training at J’s efforts, he ran a brilliant race representing the club at Norman Woodcock relays at Gosforth in November. His great pace supported a fantastic team performance.

A 19:02 park run at Blyth parkrun delivered a fantastic PB on 25thcompleted a great month of running for Sean.

Well done!

Lydia Atkinson October 23

Margaret Shaw November 23

Sean McGregor November 23

What a month young Lydia has had. Not only did she have a fantastic performance at our club relays earlier in October, she also won 1st place in the Kielder U15’s girls race – and she is only 12!!! Beating girls much taller and older than herself, it shows that it’s training and determination that makes the difference.

Since joining us she has become one of the Hirstie family and fits in so well with both juniors and senior members, and to think she came to us after spotting our club colours at Newbiggin parkrun!

Well done Lydia!!

Harry Mason October 23

Gordon Stobbart September 23

Lydia Brodie September 23

Yet another triumphant junior for this month’s award!

To see this young man enjoy the club relays, have a smile on his face and you could really see how proud he was of himself. Fastest leg 1 runner, and we think he actually surprised himself let alone his dad!

Slowly we have seen Harry gain his confidence, but he came good and with a performance like that his team placed as prize winners.

Well done Harry!

Lydia Brodie September 23

Gordon Stobbart September 23

Lydia Brodie September 23

Lydia’s distances have been steadily increasing, in line with her marathon training. That, as well as a great time of 2:01 at GNR, a regular promoter of extra miles at weekends and encouraging others to train with her too.

Always keen to help others, a positive attitude, and fundraiser for her favourite charity. A shining example to us all

Well done Lydia, your training has paid off!!

Gordon Stobbart September 23

Everybody loves our Gordi!

Always keen to run, step in at the last minute and loves a relay and a cross country. Wreckenton saw Gordi showing off the latest running footwear trend after forgetting his running shoes. Dedicated to representing his club in true Ashington style he ran the 6 mile course in hiking boots.

A transformed runner, a regular in J’s efforts with huge improvement he is a credit to the club.

Next we hope is Come Dine with Gordi after seeing his culinary skills on Facebook

Well done!

Ann Anderson August 23

Gordon Stobbart September 23

What a journey Ann has had since joining the club. First race ever at Edinburgh earlier this year and the transformation since then is outstanding.

Once a run/walker and now she is in group 3!!!

Taking part in effort sessions, your confidence really shines Ann, and we never see you without a smile on your face.

You’ve really earned this, well done.

Geoff Lewins August 23

Ann Anderson August 23

Geoff Lewins August 23

What a run at Gateshead Trail 10k, first Hirstie home in 43:55.

Geoff is now a regular in Group 1 and J’s efforts and his pace has improved so much since joining the club (and he was already pretty fast), but the training he has put in has paid off.

Always supportive of his fellow runners at training, he really shows the Hirstie spirit and represents out club so well.

Congratulations Geoff

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Teresa Peters July 23

Teresa really has come on so much since joining the club, and a regular at Alf’s efforts with some great improvement.

She is now training for a marathon, andachieving some great PB’s along the way especially at the Great North 10k.

You never see her without a smile on her face too!

Well done, very much deserved

Luke Wandless July 23

Teresa Peters July 23

Beth McDermott June 23

What a difference in this young man since joining the Hirsties. His confidence has grown in line with his impressive running pace, and he had an excellent run at the FED 5 miler earlier this month.

Parkrun PB’s, moving up the training groups and we know we will see much more from Luke

Congratulations Luke and get your mam to buy you a reward!!!

Beth McDermott June 23

The youngest member of the McFriberg household is definitely leading the way. A regular at Alf’s efforts and run groups has allowed Beth to improve on her times, with PB’s at parkrun during June.

On 26th June, Beth attended her first official race as a Hirstie at the Anita Knott 5k. How anyone can get a PB on that hilly course (and on a hot evening) is outstanding and she did it by 30 seconds!

And if that wasn’t enough she also got a flying feet photo at the finish.

As it was a ladies only race, we can only hope that you gave jogger Friberg a full race report afterwards on an event he can’t run J

Well done Beth, you’ve had a great month.

Braj Bajammeh June 23

Beth McDermott June 23

Braj Bajammeh June 23

Improvement week after week from Braj and since joining the club we have seen him move up the groups and is now comfortably at the front of group 2.

Always keen to represent the club, and most recently stepped in at Weetslade relays with a fantastic performance.

How anyone can look so happy after running that hill, but he certainly looks like he’s having the best run ever.

Congratulations to you Braj, you’ve worked hard for this award

Julie Wandless May 23

Beth McDermott June 23

Braj Bajammeh June 23

She may be wandless but she’s definitely magic!

Week on week we have seen improvement, represents the club and what a great run at Wallsend relays.

A real team player, a great example of improvement.

Well done Julie

Mark Dunwoodie May 23

The fastest runner at our club relays in an outstanding 11:47.

And that time didn’t come from nowhere, effort sessions each week and some previous fast times at events - so this award is well and truly deserved.

Congratulations Mark!!

Laura Shaw April 23

Mark Dunwoodie May 23

As the leader of the Shaw/Hutchinson family runners, Laura really shows how hard work pays off.

Training so well for months, with previous great cross country runs, but in April smashed the 10k age category club record – about time too!!

Well done Laura and carry on leading the Hirstie version of the Von Trapps!

Dan Craig April 23

Mark Dunwoodie May 23

Liz Wilson March 23

Dan has been consistently improving, up front at efforts and of course at parkrun. His most recent parkrun PB has got him to 19:44 mins at Newbiggin and we know he will continue to improve.

Such a polite, kind and supportive young man!

Just like Eddie Howe you’ve had a great month Daniel – Well done

Liz Wilson March 23

Alex Storey March 23

Liz Wilson March 23

What a performance this month by Liz, doing effort sessions in her own time, running while on holiday (although she’s barely home), but all towards the goal of competing in the New York Half Marathon. And in my best Brucievoice “didn’t she do well!” A PB of 2:13, knocking off 6 minutes from her previous one. What an achievement, and where better to do it.

We couldn’t be happier for you Liz, and to think you’ve done it whilst having to put up with Jimmy and his trains – now that’s dedication

Well done!!

Alex Storey March 23

From PB to PB to PB – a month in the life of our younger Mr Storey!

Alex just gets faster and faster, training so well and always at the sharp end of J’s efforts there’s just no catching him. Supportive to our juniors at Park Run and a shining example.

Alex, now you just need to sort your dad out and we hope he’s proud of yet another Storey AOM award. Dot might get it next time!

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Christina Purcell February 23

After joining AHRC, “The queen of the stretch “ has improved so much. After completing our C25k a few months ago, she is now a regular in Group 4 and her determination and effort has most recently given her PB’s at park run in February and previously taking part in the FED for her first ever race.

Your current performance Christina shows to all what you can achieve, from non-runner to runner. Plus your support to others always with a smile.

But if you see her with a drumstick in her hand run for your life, its gonna hurt!

Well done Christina!

Jamie Dunn February 23

Christina Purcell February 23

Claire Armstrong January 23

What a performance by our Jamie at Thornley Farm cross country!.

Finishing in 3rd place overall you made every one of us proud of you and this in addition to what you achieved with your school athletics.

He works so hard at efforts, one of our junior “team” as the support they all give each other is amazing and Jamie plays a huge part in that.

Jamie, once your mam stops crying make sure she buys you an extra big ice cream at Berterolli!!

Congratulations young man.

Claire Armstrong January 23

Claire has clearly perfected the art of running with her eyes shut (every photo Claire!!), but with such strength and improvement.

With brilliant times/runs at both Temple Park XC, and the FED Claire continues to improve, race well and represent the club at team events which is what XC is all about.

Claire quietly gets on with her runs, does what she needs to do to achieve her goals and that of AHRC at the same time.

Well done!!

Wayne Gair January 23

Claire Armstrong January 23

Stacy Reed December 22

Did you know it takes Wayne longer to get himself cleaned up and changed after a race than it does to actually run it? J

What a performance at the FED on Sunday, our first male Hirstie home in an outstanding time of 18:02 and claiming a new age category club record! The same top performance again at Temple Park XC earlier in the month (and he ran in brand new shoes).

Pace definitely runs in this family, and Wayne is so supportive to our juniors when he has chatted to them at races and training.

Congratulations Wayne!!

Stacy Reed December 22

Claire Armstrong January 23

Stacy Reed December 22

Never mind these girls can – THIS GIRL CAN!

Even though Stacy only used to come along to Friday

club, we’ve dragged her kicking and screaming to

training sessions. Hard work has paid off with a great

performance and Saltwell 10k in December.

In addition to her improved running, our very own

Postlady Patricia delivered many of our FED numbers in

her own time which really helped us out.

Well done Stacy!!

Stephen Land December 22

Charlie Embleton November 22

Stephen Land December 22

Already a holder of many club records, but what a

phenomenal performance at Valencia Marathon early December. Coming in with a time of 3:38:16, and smashing the club record we are in awe of you Mr Land.

We know how much you trained for this, and together with your son Shaun (who clearly runs for the wrong club haha), you really got the result you were aiming for.

Well done Grandad, your new Grandson Charlie will be very proud of you!

Jane Wilkes November 22

Charlie Embleton November 22

Stephen Land December 22

Jane has gone from strength to strength, and as regular at J’s efforts with hubby Scott, the effort is certainly paying off.

A fantastic performance representing the club at Norman Woodcock relays in November, and in an overall brilliant family Wilkes performance Jane finished as 3rd lady at Cwmbran Park run.

Congratulations Jane, 1 more Wilkes and we will have a full house!

Charlie Embleton November 22

Chuck has trained really hard, and so determined to get to his goal of under 20 minutes at parkrun – and not just any park run it had to be Newbiggin where he always runs. He finally did it, and made it look easy as always.

He loves running with the club, and feels so at home not just with the other juniors (who all get on brilliantly), but the adults too who support him and he always refers to AHRC as “our club”. He always has his targets in sight, and knows who he wants to try and get past.

He’s definitely going to continue to get faster, maybe if I tell him Erling Haaland is at the finish line he’ll go even faster! (Charlie is a Man City Fan)

Well done Charlie!

Gillian Clark October 22

Charlie Embleton November 22

From Iron Man to Wonder Woman!

Although Gillian’s Geordie Man was in September this was only the beginning of serious dedication and improvement.

Since then, she has stuck in as a regular in Group 2, now doing cross country representing the club, taking efforts in her stride and showing that determination and more importantly confidence delivers true performance

Well done Gillian!

Stuart Royall October 22

Gillian Clark October 22

Stuart Royall October 22

If there was an award to cycling (a long way) to an event to take part or marshal this would go to Stu.

But this is to reward not only great running performances, representation of AHRC but also support of others.

The King of the Loop, he never leaves anyone behind and whilst that is what a club is all about it doesn’t take anything away from his own achievements in races, relays, cross country and triathlons

Congratulations Stu!!

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Samantha Gair September 22

If you have seen Sam run, then you will know without a doubt how brilliant she is. In previous months she has taken a club record at parkrun, and excellent performances at the Quayside 5k and Gosforth relays. But to run her first XC for the club in a field of 441 ladies Sam placed in 7th!!!!

A truly outstanding performance and representation of the club…. Whatever her mam fed her growing up certainly worked so well doneJacqueline Prouse, and even more so to you Sam!

Lee Dixon September 22

Samantha Gair September 22

Lee Dixon September 22

Lee has had a brilliant month, GNR in 1:38 and has represented AHRC at both XC relays and most recently at Wrekenton – and in both he ran brilliantly.

Never a dull moment with Lee around, a great team player and never seems to say no to any race he is asked to take part in for the club. If you are looking for a Christmas present for him, please get him an organiser to save a certain club treasurer a job as his pa. J But just like L’Oreal he’s worth it!

Well done Lee!!

Linda Hood August 22

Garry Smith August 22

Lee Dixon September 22

What a shining example of progression! Linda has worked so hard to up her mileage at a good steady rate, and we have loved seeing her regular updates.

Early mornings, mostly running alone but so determined to get out and improve but still get back to her proper job as the ultimate doggy mam to Charlie (who has been so supportive and pushed her all the way)

Her very recent PB at park run is just a drop in the ocean compared to her goal to achieve at the GNR, but we know you will be brilliant and hopefully Charlie will have your tea on when you get home afterwards!

Well done Linda and good luck!!

Garry Smith August 22

Congratulations to Garry , who set himself an amazing challenge to run a half marathon every month this year and he is well on his way to achieve his goal.

Not only that but he is doing this as part of his fundraising for MND, a charity very close to his heart and his family.

Always smiling, but never forgetting others and supporting anyone and everyone.

Very much deserved!

Julie Chesney July 22

Garry Smith August 22

Julie just gets faster and faster…a new club age category record in the 5 miler, after other events representing the club at XC and relays she has just had yet another brilliant run at Gosforth.

She has brilliant pace, and we’re sure if she spent less time on her horseshe’d be even faster!

Well doneJulie, you’ve worked so hard for this!!

Will Fenwick July 22

Martin Ritchie June 22

Will Fenwick July 22

Will has just been in the club a few months but as well as training hard, great relay performances for the club he absolutely smashed the Chevy Chase run at the start of July, and then the Carauntoohil Classic up Ireland’s tallest mountain. It seems we have our very own purple and gold mountain goat!

Great to see our club being represented in such different events, but with brilliant results too.

Comhghairdeas Will!

Laura Frisby June 22

Martin Ritchie June 22

Will Fenwick July 22

Forget Couch 2 5k, this is Couch to 5k/5mile/relays in action. Laura has overcome so much to even try running in the first place (ask her) but to get to the point where she can comfortably run 5k in a race environment is incredible. She’s signed up for our 5 miler, Gosforth relays and by the time you read this she better have signed up for Gateshead Trail 10k!

Her enthusiasm is a joy to see and her talking while she runs is relentless, but that’s what makes Laura “Laura”

Now she can send that email to the doctor to say she now is one of our AOM’s!!!

Martin Ritchie June 22

Martin has consistently been improving for months now (was already a very good runner), and has used effort sessions well and we’ve seen him go from strength to strength.

He has represented the club at several external relays, and with a great performance at Weetslade this award is very well deserved.

Clearly supporting the red & whites has some benefits, running fast must be one of them!

Faye Dunn May 22

Wilf Hutchinson May 22

Martin Ritchie June 22

Faye has been a great example of how to improve by taking part. Now a regular at Alf’s efforts, took part in our club relays (and ran brilliantly), but also represented the club at Wallsend relays. Her times at Park Run have improved too, all down to the effort she puts in, and always with a smile!!

Wilf Hutchinson May 22

Wilf hasn’t been with us that long, but a regular at Park Run has set him up for success from the start. He has taken part in relays, taken club records already and beaten his own, plus has moved up to J’s efforts and showing improvement each week Well done Wilf!!

AHRC Athlete of the month

What's it all about?

Mark Sandford April 22

What's it all about?

Karen Smith April 22

Mark Sandford April 22

What's it all about?

A brilliant month for Karen, smashing her HM PB at Blackpool and also at the club relays so 2 new age category club records in 1 month. Along with marathon training too, and club runs the hard work has paid off and we’re sure that will continue.

Congratulations Karen xkx

Mark Sandford April 22

Ashley Patterson March 22

Since leaving his lonely goats behind, Mark has represented the club at a few races now, all with brilliant results. Early April, Mark completed the Manchester Marathon and taking the club record in his category with a fantastic time. It took some nagging to get you with us, but you have done us proud.

Well done!!

Ashley Patterson March 22

Claire Armstrong February 22

Ashley Patterson March 22

Ashley has shown such improvement in her club sessions, After starting back with us in Group 4 she is now leading the way at the front of Group 3. Such determination, always a smile on her face and a shining example to others that the more you try, the easier it becomes. Well done Ashley

Rick Smith March 22

Claire Armstrong February 22

Rick does his own version on C25K, he does The Ink Spot to Ultra (and then back again). After closing off February with his very first Ultra (36 miles!!), and trained very well for it, Rick has gone through March with some outstanding performances with 2 Park run PB’s in a row knocking 1:10 mins off on the second one. It just goes to show how fast you can run when you train well and breathe like a racehorse!! Well done Rickster, you’ve done brilliant

Claire Armstrong February 22

Going from strength to strength at Alf’s efforts and has just represented AHRC at the Signal Relays with a great performance and supporting the other runners taking part. Her pace has improved all down to the training and effort put in.

Dave Metcalfe February 22

Stephen Barker January 2022

Dave Metcalfe February 22

Dave has had a fantastic month, representing the club at both at Cross Country and Signal Relays. Getting some brilliant times and its all down to wearing shorts even when its -20 degrees. In addition to this, his support to the C25K group has been brilliant. Congratulations!!!

Emma Hall January 2022

Stephen Barker January 2022

Dave Metcalfe February 22

Fantastic to see Emma back out there clocking up the miles again. Representing the club at Hamsterley 10K which is not an easy run at all.

She’s pushing on with her training and has progressed from run//walk up to Group 3 as well as increasing her distance.

Keep up the good work Emma!!

Stephen Barker January 2022

Stephen Hollywood December 2021

What a jump in performance for Stephen, smashed his 5k PB at Park Run, represented the club at XC - just look how happy he looks too!!

And not forgetting how much he has helped Sam with her running too.

Great to see you enjoying your running and getting fantastic results

Stephen Hollywood December 2021

Stephen has improved month on month, its amazing to see how well he has done and after an outstanding performance at the Fell em Doon this is truly deserved.

He supports others, attending races with them and has fitted in so well into the Hirstie family.

His confidence has grown too which has only helped him even further when racing for the club.

Hooray for Hollywood!

Laura Pitchford December 2021

Stephen Hollywood December 2021

Laura Pitchford December 2021

The crazy, mud loving, fearless one!

Laura has thrown herself into everything, represented the club at races and improved at effort sessions.

As a fairly new member to the club, she has improved so much and we can’t wait to see what the new year brings for her.

Well deserved Laura!!

AHRC Athlete of the month

Sam McIlwaine - November 2021

Well done to our Athlete of the Month for November

Sam has continued to improve since joining the club, a regular at the front end of Alf’s efforts and now club v club relay races.

A newer member Sam has completed half marathons and 10 km s races whilst with us. This month she has been very consistent within her efforts group each week, at the front.

Keep up the good work Sam!

Ann Birchall - October 2021

Sam McIlwaine - November 2021

The Cross Country Queen!!

Just look how easy she makes it look too. Outstanding performances at the events, club relays and if I have to update her club records any more I’m going to start charging her for my time.

But on a serious note, what a fantastic October you have had Ann, great achievements and so consistent.

Congratulations

Maria Pearce - September 2021

Sam McIlwaine - November 2021

Maria Pearce - September 2021

Maria is one of our newer club members, but from Park Run to Cross Country look far she has come.

Week on week her times have improved at Park Run, but as a regular attendee at Alf’s Efforts and Hills has really shown what a difference training can make.

Maria has thrown herself into the Hirsties, and just represented the cub at Wreckenton XC - We can’t wait to see what you sign up for next.

Congratulations!!!

Sean Henderson - August 2021

Christine Doherty - July 2021

Maria Pearce - September 2021

The silent assassin has performed brilliantly in recent weeks, especially at Gateshead Trail and South Shields 10 miler, not to mention Park Run.

Never a fuss, just gets on with this run and most importantly looks like he’s enjoying it.

You’ve worked hard for you improving times Sean, so this award is well deserved

Christine Doherty - July 2021

The glamorous Hirstie has used the club sessions as well her own crazy fitness regime to improve her results and we really have seen a transformation.

Now taking part in long runs at a weekend, but has recently took the plunge and joined Jacqui’s efforts after building up her stamina through other groups.

We can remember her saying I’ll never be able to do Group 2, but is now showing what determination can really achieve. Congratulations Christine!!

Dilyara McKay - June 2021

Christine Doherty - July 2021

This is what progression is all about…Dilyara continued her running throughout lockdown and once club has been back her regular attendance at Alf’s efforts has seen her improve again each month.

She is always one of the first to wish fellow runners luck for their upcoming race and congratulations afterwards but this one is for you Dilyara.

It’s never just about that one race, but your performance at the Solway half marathon in early June saw you achieve your PB by a huge amount.

Great achievement and a very well-deserved award

From Hirsties with love

Jessica Ann - May 2021

Martyn Cottiss - March 2021

Will Thompson - April 2021

After starting in run/walk when she joined the club, Jess has attended so many sessions which has paid off and now she has progressed easily into Group 4.

But what a relay she ran for the Wallsend Relays! Her first time in a relay, which isn’t easy when its virtual and you’re on your own. But to run 11.18 pace after being at over 13 min miles is fantastic. Not just the pace, but the confidence to take part is a huge step!

We look forward to seeing you progress further, and more relays to come. Well done Jess

Will Thompson - April 2021

Martyn Cottiss - March 2021

Will Thompson - April 2021

Its very difficult to put into words what Will has achieved as he really has done so much.

Weight loss, pace, determination and not afraid to be last in a race – but guess what….he’s not doing that last bit now due to his constant improvement and resilience.

What a great example he will be to his soon to be born son, never give up, follow your dreams and be very sarcastic to your lovely wife!

Will you are a true inspiration

Martyn Cottiss - March 2021

Martyn has continued his running throughout lockdowns, and we have seen his distance increase whilst maintaining a fantastic pace. As well as focusing on his performance, he has supported his running buddies and been a great influence over recent months. After finishing the LEJOG challenge last year, he is well on his way along Route 66 and we’re sure there will be another challenge after that! Only this week, he completed the practical session for LIRF training in great style and is going to be a great addition to the Run Leader team. Well done Martyn, you’ve earned this!