A Christmas Message from the Chair.
As we approach the Christmas festivities and the end of another year I thought it would be appropriate to reflect on some of the achievements of 2019. I also felt it would be an opportunity to look ahead to the coming year. There have been many things to celebrate in our club during 2019.
Our membership grew to record levels during the year. More juniors, more female members, more masters joining us. I was particularly pleased to note that the number of females registered for the current Start Fitness North East Harrier league was the highest ever and indeed equalled that of the male members. The senior women had been promoted in the league to division one which proved it was not just quantity that counted. The quality was also in evidence. The women achieved a host of individual and team awards during the year.
The Bunny Counters numbers also increased to record levels during the year.
Another highlight of the year was the successes by junior members both individual and team success. More of our juniors participated in the North east Youth Development league. I was delighted to note that the juniors were entered in the North of England Road Relay championships held in Manchester.
Kim and I had a great day supporting the teams and our young athletes did the club proud that day.
Also of note was the fact that two of our female Masters athletes, Gillian Allen and Andrea Banner gained England vests in the England v Celtic Nations Marathon.
I was delighted to learn that Senior Captain, Richard Houghton gained the honour of achieving the Marathon World Majors award.
At the Royal Signals Relays which incorporated the North East Athletics Association Championships, our senior women and male Masters team’s gained North East medals.
A rather special achievement by one of our coaching team was realised when Simon Lynch was chosen as England Athletics North East Run Together Leader of the year.
Simon has organised a number of Couch to 5K coaching sessions and the club membership has benefitted as a result.
Our club sponsored race events continued to prove successful and popular among the region’s clubs. Thanks to graham Bell Race Director and the team of helpers, we were able to stage the Good Friday Relays, Newburn River Run (with a special 130th Anniversary t-shirt). Sadly, our Annual Norman Woodcock Memorial event was not organised due to difficulties with the course etc. It is hoped that the 2020 version of the event will take place.
The club’s social events proved popular as ever thanks to the efforts of our events co-ordinator, Michelle Coleman.
We had a rather special event in November when the late Norman Woodcock’s son Peter visited us. Peter was in the region from his home in America and he wanted to see where the club that his father loved so dearly was based. Peter was delighted to meet many of the club members at the Tuesday night training session.
I am sure there were other successes that have not been mentioned but what a year it has been for our club. The club successes would not be possible if we did not have the group of dedicated and loyal volunteers that we are so fortunate to have.
Our committee is strong and active. Our team of coaches, Run Leaders and parent helpers are obviously having a very positive effect on our members in all sections of the club.
I would like to say a very big thank you to all our volunteers no matter what their role is. I would also like to say thank you to our athletes who represent Elswick Harriers not just in the region but in various parts of the globe.
We can look forward to the next year with confidence and anticipation of more successes and achievements.
With best wishes for a happy Christmas and fit and healthy 2020 to all our members and not forgetting those former members who still keep an eye on our club’s achievements via our website or social media platforms.
Harry Matthews.