As 2003 draws to a close the Centurions can look back on two successful race ventures – the Newmarket ‘100’ organised by Surrey Walking Club, and the trip to Roubaix celebrating the 50^th. Anniversary of the 28 hours Classic.

The home event had no less than 72 starters and a dramatic finish that was not settled until Peter Ryan in his debut at this distance literally lurched across the finishing line. Everybody in this race deserves praise particularly considering the hours of torrential rain endured during the night. Race director Peter Selby, and Ron Wallwork heading the New Astley Club and the other local organisations, must have been delighted at the response they received from so many sources. Beside the winner there were eye catching performances from William Mutze who so nearly snatched victory, the ever consistent Sandra Brown and her persistent rival Syliane Varin, and the courageous Cath Duhig who achieved her ambition of becoming a British Centurion.

For longstanding Brothers and Sisters it was a delight to welcome no less than 17 new members with the coveted No. 1000 being gained by Wendy Watson, who had promised to return and become a Centurion some years ago. She represented the L.D.W.A. which, together with the ever welcome Dutch contingent, were mainly responsible for the large entry.

The Roubaix ‘adventure’ organised so ably by Peter Selby as it has been for so many years had 23 UK walkers participating backed by an equal number of helpers and supporters. The extreme heat made conditions very trying and certainly affected final distances and contributed to the number of retirements. Heading the British contingent and the first lady to finish, Sandra Brown, she achieved her longest distance yet in this event and was amongst the top male performers in 6^th position. Husband Richard was not to be outdone as he headed the British men with a very solid performance considering his injury and consequent absence from the sport.

I know many greatly appreciated meeting some of the past ‘Greats’ of the event plus the detailed memorabilia so proudly displayed by the organisers.

Talking of competitions it is interesting and heart warming to note that many hundreds(!!) participated in the Isle of Man Parish Walk in mid-Summer so there is still considerable scope for distance walking to look forward to the future.

Regarding the Centurions finances, stocks of merchandise have sold well due to the efforts of the Secretary and currently we have a sound bank balance. However, I know our Treasurer would be delighted and grateful if further donations and bequests were to come his way in the near future.

I compliment all the Centurions Committee members for their dedicated work in the past year and we now have a new Web Master, Kathy Crilley, and Richard and Sandra Brown have kindly agreed to be responsible for the sales of Centurions clothing, badges, etc.

Due primarily to health and personal reasons it will be necessary to install a new Captain at the AGM on Saturday 21 February 2004, as well as a new President and Secretary to replace John Eddershaw and Ken Munro respectively. Both have served the Centurion Brotherhood and Sisterhood most diligently, vigorously, generously and respectfully whilst in their current offices. I am sure I speak for all Centurions when I congratulate them both for their magnificent efforts and wish them good fortune and the best of health.

It is with deep regret that I have to announce my decision to stand down as Centurions Captain as at the next AGM. Due to my limited vision I find myself unable to travel around as much as I have done over the decades and therefore I am less able to inspire, cajole, enthuse and help when attending events even in the daylight hours. It saddens me greatly as those who know me realise that race walking and particularly the Centurions have played a great part in my life since my boyhood.

When I took over the Captaincy from the current President I stated that I intended to keep up the very high standard set by the previous seven Captains since our inception in 1911. I trust that despite my increasing visual difficulties I have achieved my aim and I am pleased to see that the UK Long Distance Challenge now attracts a healthy number of participants and that ultra distance racing is becoming increasingly popular.

I am sure you, the Centurions, will appoint a fellow Centurion who I am certain will feel honoured and humbled to take this esteemed position and through his/her enthusiasm, integrity and respect will inspire a new generation of Centurions steeped in the traditions of the Brother/Sisterhood. My years as Captain will always remain a highlight in my life as a race walker, and I thank you all.

Looking to 2004 it is proposed to hold the 100 miles championship at Kings Lynn on 26/27 June with Cath and Peter Duhig supervising local arrangements. I hope you will give them all the support they require as a participant or helper/supporter.

Finally, for the last time as Captain, I hope all Centurions will join me in the time honoured tradition of raising your glass at 2 pm on Christmas Day to toast ‘The Centurions’ worldwide.

My thanks and Bless You all.

Colin Young C. 317
Centurions Captain.

home | Centurions history | events calendar 2009 | training advice | FAQs | Centurions news | results | links