Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing paid tribute to Her Majesty The Queen and King Charles III on Sunday 11th September at the King’s Proclamation of Accession held at The Vine War Memorial in Sevenoaks Crowds lined the road to join the Deputy Lieutenant, Mr Lennox Cato and the Mayor of Sevenoaks, Councillor Rachel Parry, at 3.15pm to mark the accession of King Charles III to the throne after the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
In a tribute to the Queen, Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing’s Editor Steve Rowley, laid flowers on the war memorial with a message on behalf of all the District’s sport clubs saying: “Your Majesty, Ma’am. On behalf of all the sports clubs in the Sevenoaks District, we thank you for your service to the nation and the commonwealth We will teach our children and their children about you and your unwavered devotion to us all May you forever rest in peace ”
Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing magazine is published every month with free circulation in Sevenoaks, Swanley, West Kingsdown, Westerham, Edenbridge and the surrounding areas. Our main distribution points can be found at Tesco (Riverhead), The Oak Tavern (Sevenoaks), Wetherspoons (Sevenoaks), Sevenoaks Leisure Centre, Bat and Ball Sports, Sevenoaks Town FC, Sevenoaks Rugby Club, The Vine Pavilion, Otford Post Office, Swanley Town Council offices, Swanley Leisure Centre, Edenbridge Leisure Centre, Westerham FC, The Bricklayers Arms, Chipstead and The Windmill, Weald. Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing magazine is owned and published by One Team Media Ltd and has no ties to the district council, local town councils or any other publishers or businesses Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in
He added: “On behalf of all our sports clubs in the Sevenoaks District, we join our nation in mourning the passing of HRH Queen Elizabeth II We have lost a mother, a grandmother of the nation, nay the world
She became for many the one constant point in a rapidly changing world and we have been fortunate to have lived in the greatest Elizabethan Age ”
Publishing Editor & Founder
steve@oneteammedia co uk
Lorraine Rowley
Features Editor & Events Co ordinator
lorraine@oneteammedia co uk
Georgia Randall
Junior Associate & Reporter
georgia@oneteammedia.co.uk
Frank Baldwin Travel Editor
Jason Crow Better Body Group
Andrew Gidley Sevenoaks Town FC
Jenny Godfrey Sevenoaks Swimming
Gordon MacLelland WWPIS
Cover image: M oaks Town FC
this publication is accurate at the time of going to press, One Team Media Ltd. can not accept liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause We are unable to check claims made by advertisers are legal and truthful and that all products and services are safe. One Team Media Ltd does not accept any liability in relation to advertisements placed.
Magdalena Marvell Persea Clinic
Laura Trott Sevenoaks & Swanley MP
editorial@oneteammedia co uk
advertising@oneteammedia co uk
Contact us
Email: info@oneteammedia.co.uk
Website: www sevenoakssports co uk
Meta: @SSandWellbeing
Twitter: @SSandWellbeing
GOD SAVE THE KING
TOM BOSWORTH Two time Olympian bids final farewell to race walking
FA CUP DREAMS Sevenoaks Town beat Bath City for a place in club history!
END OF AN ERA Sevenoaks Swimming Club part waves with Head Coach Keiron Piper
Travel Editor, Frank Baldwin, explores the best cycle routes in Europe
Since we were last here a lot has changed for us all. We have a new Prime Minister and a new Monarch, and our energy bills have sky rocketed!
But one thing that has remained the same is that Sevenoaks Town Football Club are still in the FA Cup!
Yes, you read that right, Sevenoaks Town are still chasing their FA Cup dreams after beating Bath City on the road at the start of the month in the latest qualifying round. You can catch up with the match report on page 14 We also bring you another big interview as two time Olympian Tom Bosworth bids his final farewell to race walking, plus Sevenoaks Swimming Club part waves with their Head Coach Keiron Piper
We report on Sevenoaks Rugby Club’s latest plight at Knole Paddock and Travel Editor Frank Baldwin explores Europe’s best cycle routes.
Boxing plays a big part in this month’s issue too with reports from our club’s in West Kingsdown and Sevenoaks And on top of all that we also have our regular columns from Working with Parents in Sport, the Better Body Group and Magdalena Marvell from the Persea Clinic
Next month we will be taking a closer look at our hockey club’s throughout the district and fingers crossed, we might even bring you more news on Sevenoaks Town’s progression in the FA Cup! Until then, take care of yourselves
FA Cup Dr eams ar e made in Ba th Sevenoaks Town beat Bath City for a place in club and FA Cup history
Steve Rowley Publishing Editor & Founder
Have you joined the chain gang ?Kind regards, Steve
Aresult of the well documented evidence of how boxing training helps to slow down the progression of Parkinson’s disease, West Kingsdown Boxing Club (WKD) were approached by their Club Support Officer, Avoen Perryman, to host a bespoke Parkinson’s workshop.
In November 2019 England Boxing, in partnership with Parkinsons UK delivered the workshop at WKD with coaches from various boxing clubs in attendance including Mickey Bowden, Colin Neill and Danny Pollard of WKD The workshop was designed to help develop and upskill the coaches to enable them to deliver sessions to the Parkinson’s community
Initially skeptical, Colin Neill, a coach with over forty years experience, was impressed at the impact the training could have on people diagnosed with Parkinson’s “I can remember my response was that I couldn’t see how this could work but hearing more about the benefits I was inspired to help people with this condition The training covered the importance of using the correct terms when working with those with the condition, but also explained how, as boxing involved complicated movements of the head, hands and feet, it leads to the production of dopamine and increased dopamine production is a huge benefit to those with Parkinsons.” Sadly, the pandemic impacted the start of WKD being able to deliver the
Parkinson’s sessions, especially as those with the condition needed to take extra precautions to stay safe
However, in February this year, three years after the training workshop, the first Parkinson’s session was held at WKD with only three people at the first session, Christine, Colin and John. It took some gentle encouragement for Christine to get involved, who at first wanted to only watch, but soon had the confidence to join the others
Colin added: “I learnt a lot from that first session at how normal training would need to be adapted. Getting into the ring and climbing over the ropes wasn’t easy for them so we focused on shadow boxing and using the bags and pads The group worked hard, and I could see the improvement in their skills,
co ordination and confidence. We soon grew from a group of 3 to 10 people probably the most we can take in a single class!”
The impact of the class on those that take it, is all the motivation Colin needs to continue with this work
He continued to say: “They describe training as an escape from the condition, one member told me that boxing made them feel ‘normal’ when they were training and for a few hours after Another, who has recently been diagnosed with cancer, was only concerned with how his cancer diagnosis, would impact his boxing and how soon he could return to the club.”
WKD have been able to provide these sessions for one year due to the funding and support from England Boxing and Parkinson’s UK. Active Kent and Medway have kindly funded the purchase of boxing gloves for the Parkinson’s participants and most recently, The Community Cupboard, have helped with providing supplies for the well earned cup of tea after the weekly sessions! WKD hope these classes can continue for years to come and provide support and relief to those with Parkinson’s
• In addition to the Parkinson’s classes, WKD Boxing Club run boxing training sessions for children and young people aged 10 and above with separate classes for boys, girls, men and female only classes together with 1:1 sessions If you would like to get involved you can contact them at wkdbox@outlook.com
Sevenoaks Swimming Club’s annual Championships has started with some fantastic results already. The Championships is open to all club swimmers aged seven and up and allows all participants, some of them for the first time, to compete in a range of strokes and distances It is a great opportunity at the start of the new season for the club community to get together, for swimmers to get back in the pool and race, and for younger swimmers to gain experience in a competition.
Pictured below is Dakota Lynch competing in the 12 year old category,
swimming the gruelling 200 metre Butterly race, cheered on by his fellow team mates and spectators
A special mention also goes to Harry Sweeting, pictured above, who, after a long time away from swimming and nine weeks in hospital, was back racing in the 11 year old category. It was great to see Harry back
As always the Club is extremely grateful to Head Coach, Keiron Piper and his team of coaches, all the volunteers and officials, and Sencio at Sevenoaks Leisure Centre who made this all possible.
Sevenoaks Swimming Club received some sad and devastating news in September regarding their Coach Kenny Hickey. Kenny was recently diagnosed with Stage 4 Multifocal Glioblastoma, a fast growing and aggressive brain tumor, and he and his family need the community’s support Ke, who also works at Walthamstow Hall School, Kenny’s wife Claire said: “This fundraiser is Kenny's wish I write for him and his last colossal effort to care for us, save our home and protect our
son's future ” Please help Kenny and his family by visiting and sharing their fundraising page at gofundme.com/f/swim coach kennys brain cancer appeal
Sevenoaks Swimming Club were delighted to hear that swimmer Eva Okaro received her first international senior team call up. This is the Club’s first international call up and the club are so proud of her. Head Coach Keiron Piper said: “What an achievement We are all so incredibly proud.”’
Eva will travel to Berlin for the World Cup this month Good luck Eva!! The Club and all of Sevenoaks will be cheering you on!
Sevenoaks Swimming Club are delighted to introduce Ruby Jarrett, an ex swimmer and volunteer reporter
Ruby is a gap year student looking to gain experience and confidence to help her future university prospects to study sports journalism.
She is a a former regional level swimmer as well as a football enthusiast and an avid supporter of Newcastle United. Ruby would like to develop a viewpoint on sport
Whilst the Swimming Club is delighted to have Ruby volunteering with them, it is recognised that she is looking for a breadth of experience across all sports. Therefore, if you would like to enquire if Ruby can assist your sports club with reporting please do make contact by emailing marketing@sevenoakssc.org
Members of the Sevenoaks Chamber of Commerce headed to Nizels Golf Club in September for their annual Charity Golf Day Every year the Chamber chooses a local charity and this year it was to raise awareness and much needed funds for the Sevenoaks Samaritans Team Chevening, made up of David Hawes Gatt, Mike Swan, Steve Whittaker and Martin Smith took first place on the day, whilst Team Schmidt Ben Dutton, Paul Dale, Adrian Tobitt and Christian Howell won the award for Room for most Improvement
The Chamber thanked all the local businesses and individuals for their generosity and participation in helping them make the day a great success A spokesperson for the Chamber said: “We are delighted to announce we raised £2,000 for the Sevenoaks Samaritans ” Dave Hickson from the Sevenoaks Samaritans said: “Sevenoaks
Samaritans would like to thank Chamber members and their guests for generously supporting us at the Charity Golf Day. The money raised will provide vital funds to train and support local volunteers to be there for people who desperately need someone.
“It costs approximately £200 to train a volunteer and the money raised will help us reach our ambitious goals of reaching 150 listening volunteers to offer emotional support to our callers. Every day Samaritans volunteers respond to around 10,000 calls for help, and we are working hard to ensure we are always there 24/7.”
• If you would like to find out more about the work of Sevenoaks Samaritans, become a volunteer or find many ways you can support them, please get in touch with Dave Hickson at dave.hickson@sevenoakssamaritans .org Thank you, your donation could save a life
Credit : Russell Harper.
The community atmosphere and team spirit generated by Kemsing LTC members was very much in evidence recently when a large crowd turned out to support the players competing in the club’s 2022 finals day Although spectators were able to enjoy the sunshine, the heat of the day was particularly energy sapping for the players and especially tough on those who had to play in more than one final
But this did not stop them providing a great spectacle of entertaining tennis First on court during the morning session were Howard Cloke and Paul Youden playing in the Mens Super Vets singles for the largest trophy on offer Cloke won the day 6 0, 6 2
On the court next door, the Mens Vets Singles was won by Ty Stalberg who beat Club Chairman Michael Elders 6 4, 6 4 in a close match
Anita Van Hensbergen and Holly Miles then faced each other for the Ladies Singles title and fought a thrilling three set match that lasted well over two hours, during which even the umpire had to take a break
Van Hensbergen took the first set 6 2, with Miles fighting back to take the second set 6 4 The third set swung in favour of one player, then the other, and with her opponent visibly tiring, Miles looked to have gained the upper hand.
Van Hensburgen dug in and found some
reserves of energy to win the vital points enabling her to seal the final set 7 5 to take the title.
While spectators enjoyed a BBQ lunch, Michael Elders took to the court his second final of day and the first of the afternoon session He partnered Matt Bance against club coach Steve Steffens and Dan Redshaw in the Men’s doubles with the latter pair emerging as 7 5, 7 5 victors after two close sets
It was straight back on court for Bance and Steffens who then faced each other again in the Mens Singles final. Steffens gained the upper hand and became
champion with a 6 3, 6 3 scoreline. Not long after her epic singles final, Holly Miles was back in action, this time with partner Julie Heyworth in the Ladies doubles. Their opponents Jane Ladbury and Sue Glass proved too strong and they lifted the trophy with a 6 1, 7 5 victory
After missing out on two trophies earlier in the day, it was third time lucky for Matt Bance when, together with Jane Ladbury, won the mixed doubles against siblings Howard Cloke and Anita Van Hensbergen 6 3, 6 1. The final match was the Men’s Vets doubles where, in an exciting finish to the day, Richard Newsom and Ivan Reffel beat Matt Day and Paul Louden 6 4, 7 6
Kemsing LTC is a friendly village club with four floodlit courts surrounded by beautiful countryside. The club invites anyone who would like to consider becoming a member to come and play at a club session to see the facilities and to chat to other members
Kemsing offers both team and club play, plus coaching for those who want to brush up on their skills, along with social events and tournaments For more information, contact Membership Secretary Ian Head by email at ian@smiles.me.uk or go to the club website at kemsingltc.com
Jane Ladbur y and Sue Glass (lef t) emerged as Ladies Doubles Champions af ter defeating Julie Heywor th and Holly Miles In the Men’s Vets doubles Richard Newsom and Ivan Reffel (lef t) beat Mat t Day and Paul Louden.sport was a tough ask, but one that I think we executed brilliantly as a Club!
At the Summer British Swimming Champs this year you were filmed celebrating in the stands when the girls relay team scooped gold. That was such an incredible achievement for the relay team, you and of course all in the club. How would you describe that moment?
Wow! What a moment! It was the culmination of everything; the whole season and the five months before that after returning from the pandemic To take a large group of athletes to nationals, effectively one huge squad, and to have the fantastic success we had, to then win that relay with four amazing girls who fought with everything for each other. To win that against huge school and city programs, in the dying milliseconds I’ve never experienced a chill, high or feeling like it That’ll stay with me for the rest of my career and life; just wow!
After 4 years with Sevenoaks Swimming Club, Head Coach, Keiron Piper is leaving for a new role We caught up with Keiron to find out more
Where are you going and what are you going to do?
I’m off to Millfield School in Somerset, to join a fantastically experienced coaching team led by Euan Dale and Ryan Livingstone, and will be leading a squad of national quality athletes whilst assisting the performance group
What will you miss about Sevenoaks? The people! Committee members, volunteers, coaches and the swimmers!
You’ve picked up some fantastic awards in the four years, including Swim England 2021 Inspirational Coach Award & Kent Mental Health & Wellbeing Award. How did it feel to be recognised in this way through nominations from the Club community?
Very humbling and I felt so lucky and honoured to even be considered and put forward by members of the Club Thank you again!
What have you achieved as Head Coach that you are most proud of?
I think it’s seeing the growth of the Club. We’ve grown from having around 6 youth regional qualifiers and 4 British National qualifiers to almost 40 Youth Regional and then 20 British National qualifiers. We’ve set Club Records at every major meet we’ve attended and have become one of the leading Clubs in the south east; and becoming a big player at national level too!
Have you learnt anything that you will be taking with you?
My entire coaching philosophy has evolved and developed hugely in my time here There are so many things that I’ve learned and developed that has let me grow hugely as a coach: technical, tactical, psychological, physiological and in developing relationships with athletes, coaches and all involved!
As a Head Coach there are always challenges. What would you say was the biggest challenge you faced & how did you get through it?
Definitely the pandemic Keeping a Club as large as we are going, staying motivated and wanting to return to the
Have you got any final words for the Sevenoaks Swimmers?
Dream big, work hard, listen to your coaches, thank your parents for their sacrifice and believe in yourselves!
You’re all capable of so much more, don’t be satisfied with what we achieved together so far; I want to watch the Club continue to grow and have further success. You’re the driving force for that, make it happen!
By a swimmer on behalf of ever yone at Sevenoaks Swimming Club. Keiron Piper pictured alongside Eva Okaro at the British Swimming Championships in May 2022
It is fair to say that Sevenoaks Town Football Club have been struggling in the Pitching In Isthmian League South East Division so far this season, with just one win and one draw in the five matches played so far However, to get to the start of October having only played five league matches, means that the club are plying their trade elsewhere this season.
Welcome to the Emirates FA Cup and indeed the Isuzu FA Trophy. Sevenoaks started their FA Cup campaign in the Extra Preliminary Round at the start of August away at Horley Town, this was due to their final league standings from the previous season.
They saw off Horley Town that day, winning the match comfortably 5 0. Then came Merstham in the Preliminary Round, and after a hard fought replay which they won 2 0, Sevenoaks then hosted Isthmian Premier Division side Kingstonian in the first round of qualifying Two goals from striker Ryan Gondoh that afternoon ensured Town’s progress to the next round where they would face Phoenix Sports.
With yet another strike from Gondoh in that match, it meant that Sevenoaks were now in the Third Qualifying Round
for the first time in the club’s long history And with a mouth watering tie away at north Somerset club, and Vanarama National South side, Bath City, the players and fans alike were jubilant at the prospect of such a tie
The day of the Third Qualifying Round match started particularly early for the club as they embarked onto a coach at 9.30am, leaving Greatness Park without their Manager Harry Hudson, following the arrival of his first baby earlier in the week
On the coach were the players, coaching staff, committee members and supporters of the club, and after a somewhat quiet but extremely long road trip to north Somerset, arriving at 1.20pm, this meant that the team had minimal time to get themselves stretched out and match ready for the biggest day in the club’s history. What would unfold in the Bath sunshine though, would rewrite the history books.
Jordy Ndozid's first half winner maintained Sevenoaks Town's history making run in the Emirates FA Cup knocking out National League South Bath City
The midfielder's first goal for the club 10 minutes before half time, decided the Third Qualifying Round tie in front of a 1,000 plus crowd at Twerton Park on a sunny Somerset afternoon It was a deserved victory against a side two divisions above them even the locals agreed sportingly applauding the players as they left for the journey home
Once again Oaks' preparations proved spot on, the game plan working frustrating Bath who lost for the fifth time in 14 years to Step 4 opponents
The final whistle started the celebrations with the players face timing manager Hudson, the victory capping a memorable week for the Sevenoaks boss
Ryan Gondoh's free kick was headed clear by home defender Jordan Dyson, only as far as Dan Hector whose effort was blocked The ball fell to Ndozid who finished low inside Joe Wright's right hand post his first for the club.
Yahya Bamba missed out earlier one on one against Wright who blocked with his legs
Bath meanwhile were restricted to only a couple of first half efforts, with manager Jerry Gill making a double substitution at the break
Scott Wilson went close soon after the break as the hosts attempted to up their game, but Oaks defended well and looked to break on the counter
Bamba beat a couple of defenders before firing over, Dan Hector saw his effort blocked, before Manny Mensah went on a great run hugging the far touchline to relieve the pressure
McCarthy denied Wilson again late on Oaks keeping out one final corner to complete another excellent result.
Matthew Weaire and skipper Corey Holder, back after a one match ban, were outstanding, winning the joint Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing Man of the Match award a first on the road this season due to the special nature of the win
Can history be rewritten again?
So Sevenoaks had made history in Bath, a courageous effort from every single member of the playing squad had spoken volumes about the attitude currently running through the veins of the club. Yes, they may only have four points from five league games, but Sevenoaks Town are through to the Fourth and final Qualifying Round of the
FA Cup, and just one more win away from the First Round Proper
On Monday 3rd October, talkSPORT announced the draw for the next round and Sevenoaks Town (ball number 32) were drawn away yet again, this time against National South side table toppers Ebbsfleet United
The short trip to Ebbsfleet will no doubt please Sevenoaks as it is an away fixture that will provide a decent gate receipt, but without the hassle of organising away travel for supporters
Whatever happens in that match, we know for sure that the boys in blue and black will give 100% to the cause on the field once again, and that they will hopefully be in the hat with bigger prospects on the horizon Charlton, Derby County, Bolton or Portsmouth all await in the First Round Proper and could potentially host Sevenoaks if they do indeed progress even further on this magical cup run It will be an absolute pleasure to follow them til the end of their FA Cup journey
Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space Our expert local installers will fit your new door and they’ll take away the old one too, so there’s no mess.
Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up completely FREE of charge.
Sevenoaks Suns put on a dominant display away at Oakland Wolves at the start of October, winning by a commanding 72 points, with six of their seven players in double figures Starting off hot, Suns set the pace and scored an impressive 34 points in the first quarter During the second quarter, Suns defence really took control of the game, allowing Wolves to score just five points, while scoring 31 themselves. They were led by team captain and top scorer Renee Busch who scored 28 points with 6/11 from behind the 3 point line and went into the break up by 38 points (27 65).
The second half was much of the same and despite a valiant effort from the Wolves players, especially Kizzy Spence who shot 40% from outside the three, Sevenoaks were firmly on top, winning the third quarter 24 9 and the fourth 33 14
In September, Sevenoaks faced last season’s WBBL Championship winners
1 BA London Lions 2204
2 Leicester Riders 2204
3 Caledonia Gladiators 2204
4 Cardiff Met Archers 1102
5 Sevenoaks Suns 2112
6 Newcastle Eagles 2112
7 Sheffield Hat ters 0000
8 Durham Palatinates 0000
9 Not tingham Wildcats 1010
10 Essex Rebels 2020
11 Manchester Mystics 2020
12 Oaklands Wolves 2020
BA London Lions at the Copperbox Arena and unfortunately came out on the wrong side of a 83 72 scoreline Former WNBA standout, Mikiah Herbert Harrigan stood out, leading Lions with a fantastic double double of 22 points, on 7/11 shooting and 12 rebounds Renee Busch led all scorers in vain for the Suns with 25 points.
core and found success at the foul line as a result.
London forced Sevenoaks into turnovers, and turned them into points at the other end, aiming to blow the game open But the Suns were determined not to stay in the dark, remaining poised with smart team basketball, highlighted by a lay up for Judit Fritz It was ultimately not enough though as Sevenoaks start their long season with a win and a defeat.
SE V ENOAK S AC W IN P ROMO T ION
The visitors were as bright as the sun to begin with as Sevenoaks went to the teeth of the Lions intimidating defensive
Up until 2021 Sevenoaks AC had never won a medal at Junior County level but this summer the club added 10 to the previous six won last year with four athletes winning their respective events. This included James Beecroft and Eliza Nicholson (3000m) who both went on to qualify for the English Schools Championships in Manchester with James winning the U15 100m.
And as a team, going into the last Kent Young Athlete League match it was still touch and go as to which team would gain promotion to Division 1 next summer But consistency throughout the four matches paid off and Sevenoaks AC came out clear winners and secured a League win
Wateringbur
1 AFC Orpington
Wanderers
Bromleians
Greenways
Hoo
Slade
Longlands
Warlingham
Spor
Westerham
0 2 1
2 Orpington 2 1 1 0 5
3 Crayford Arrows 1 1 0 0 4 2 2
4 Manor wood 1 0 1 0 2 2
5 Chislehurst 0 0 0 0 0
6 Glebe Manor 0 0 0 0 0
7 Greenwich Mariners 0 0 0 0 0
8 Hayden Youth Assoc Res 1 0 0 1 2 3 1
9 Brockley 1 0 0 1 1 2 1
10 DC Football Club 1 0 0 1 2 4 2
11 Ellis Athletic 1 0 0 1 1 5 4
2 Kemsing United
3 Eynsford
4 Halls AFC 3rd
5 Tunbridge Wells Foresters
6 Nomads
7 Green Street Green Rovers
Horsmonden
Pembur
Fleetdown United
Chipstead Development
TJFC Seniors
Swanley Oaks
Orpington Reser
Cudham United
AFC Green Cour
1 Benhurst United 2 2
2 Green Street Green 2 2
3 Kingsdale 1 1
4 Westerham Wolves 2 1
5 Shor tlands Spitfires 2
6 Pet ts Wood Road Runners 1 1
7 Hawksbrook Wanderers 2 1
8 Bexley Athletic 2 1
9 Bromley Athletic SE Ballers 2 1
Hayes
Gravesham
Burnt Ash 3rd
Universit
Deal
Gillingham
Knole
Tunbridge
Sut
Blackheath
Sit tingbourne
Gore
Wellcome
Kent
2 2 8 6 0
Southend Saints
Lordswood Valk
Ashford
Aylesford Bulls
Gravesend
Westcliff
New Ash Green
Thurrock
Hackney
Cheshunt
Rochford Hundred
Dar tfordians
Stanford Le Hope
Witham
Swanley Black Swans
1 Southgate 2
2 Old Loughtonians
Canterbur
Sevenoaks
Team Bath Buccaneers
Teddington
Oxford Hawks
Universit y of Bristol
Brighton & Hove
Old Cranleighan
1 Holcombe 2nd
2 Horsham
Tunbridge Wells
Aldershot & Farnham
5 Old Georgians 2nd
Eastbourne
Canterbur y 2nd
Lewes
Sit tingbourne
Blackheath & Elthamians
Woking
Sevenoaks 2nd
Old Williamsonian's
Blackheath
Sevenoaks 3rd
Clif tonville
Ashford 2nd
Canterbur
4th
Folkestone Optimist 2nd
1 Canterbur y 2 2 0 0 6 1 5 6
2 Isca & Universit y of Exeter 2 1 1 0 3 1 2 4
3 Slough 2 1 1 0 3 1 2 4
4 Barnes 2 1 1 0 4 3 1 4
5 Sevenoaks 2 1 0 1 5 2 3 3
6 Harleston Magpies 2 1 0 1 4 3 1 3
7 Wimbledon 2nd 2 1 0 1 3 5 2 3
8 Surbiton 2nd 2 0 1 1 2 4 2 1
9 Witney 2 0 0 2 1 5 4 0
10 Cambridge Cit y 2 0 0 2 2 8 6 0
1 Old Georgians 2 2 0 0 15 1 14 6
2 Brighton & Hove 2 2 0 0 5 1 4 6
3 Sevenoaks 2nd 2 2 0 0 3 1 2 6
4 Folkestone Optimist 2 1 1 0 4 2 2 4
5 Canterbur y 2nd 1 1 0 0 4 1 3 3
6 Bromley & Beckenham 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
7 Eastbourne 2 1 0 1 3 4 1 3
8 Epsom 2 0 1 1 2 8 6 1
9 Maidstone 2 0 0 2 2 4 2 0
10 Aldershot & Farnham 2 0 0 2 1 5 4 0
11 Woking 2 0 0 2 1 5 4 0
12 Oxted 1 0 0 1 0 8 8 0
1 Tunbridge Wells 2 2 0 0 8 2 6 6
2 Marden Russets 2 2 0 0 5 0 5 6
3 Holcombe 2nd 2 2 0 0 4 0 4 6
4 Burnt Ash 2 1 1 0 6 3 3 4
5 Canterbur y 3rd 2 1 1 0 3 2 1 4
6 Ashford 2 1 0 1 3 2 1 3
7 Sevenoaks 3rd 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
8 Blackheath & Elthamians 2 1 0 1 1 1 0 3
9 Sevenoaks Acorns 2 0 0 2 4 8 4 0
10 Ashford 2nd 2 0 0 2 0 4 4 0
11 Bexleyheath & Belvedere 2 0 0 2 2 8 6 0
12 Bromley & Beckenham 2nd 2 0 0 2 0 6 6 0
1 Knole Park 2 2 0 0 25 0 25 6
2 Gore Cour t 2 2 0 0 8 2 6
3 Gillingham Anchorians 2 2 0 0 3 1 2
Folkestone Optimist 2nd 2 1 0 1 2 2 0
Blackheath & E’mians 2nd 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 2
Holcombe 3rd 2 0 2 0 2 2 0 2
Clif tonville 2 0 1 1 2
Burnt Ash 2nd 2 0 1 1 1 2 1
Sit tingbourne 2 0 1 1 2
Old Williamsonians 2 0 1 1 0
Sevenoaks
2
www.amherstaccountancy.co.uk
Committed sponsor of local sports clubs, promoting the important role sport plays in keeping our community active, healthy and focussed.
Sevenoaks Amateur Boxing Club (SABC) held their first show of 2022 at Trinity School in Sevenoaks, and with 10 boxers picked, it goes to show the depth of talent currently within the club
With all shows there is always going to be the adulation of winning and sadness of learning, the club never have losers. SABC’s co owner and Head Coach, Andy Knight said: “No one can really describe the heart and discipline needed to get in that ring and put your body in harms way while trying to remain calm, focused and aware but everyone was truly up to the task and more.”
Handing out trophies for the club on the day was Lewis Syrett, who had 50 amateur bouts for the club and 10 professional bouts including winning the Southern Area Middleweight title under the guidance of Andy Andy added: “From young Jasper who made a debut to dream of by forcing a stoppage to the soon to be retiring Dan de la Cruz who finished the show did us proud but not with the win he so wanted and worked for In between we had Alby Butt who won again and is just getting better and better, Alfie Brown who also made his debut with a dominant win Bouts continued in quick succession and Vinnie came in next again making his debut for us and again outclassing his opponent to gain another win “James Lock finally got his first bout, and against a strong, raw opponent lost out in a split decision after giving his all but much more is expected of him. Tom was next but sadly lost his first bout and now knows what it takes, so will expect a win from him soon And finally we had young Dan in for his second bout, he unfortunately lost it on a split, but after his win a couple of weeks back, he will soon be back with his hand being raised again ”
A great day indeed and a great future instore for thier boxers and with the experience of Andy and Paul and the help, guidance and passion of all the trainers behind them, great things are expected
Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing magazine is an independent publication, dedicated to the community of the Sevenoaks District. The publication provides a platform to thousands of local sporting individuals, clubs, societies, schools and charities every month, bringing to the community their news, their stories, raising awareness and highlighting their profiles
As a free to pick up publication, the magazine is funded by advertisers, therefore as an advertiser with Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing magazine, you are directly supporting the platform that helps promote the community’s grassroots sports and local well being charities
You are demonstrating to the local community that you are passionate about their stories being heard and you are impassioned and care about the future success of our local clubs and societies
Community has never been so vital for the future of local businesses, and loyalty in supporting one another has never been so valued.
Sport
2023,
On St. Georges Day in April, Sevenoaks Rugby Club (SRFC) beat Hertford 37 17 at Knole Paddock to record an historic win guaranteeing them the London & South East Premier title and furthermore a place in club history, as they would now be playing the much loved game at National Level 4. Changes ensued throughout the club during the summer, with Head Coach Adam Bowman taking on more responsibility as Sevenoaks’ Director of Rugby and a fulltime position at the club as Commercial Director With the promise of Level 4 rugby confirmed at Knole Paddock for the 2022/23 season, drainage work started on the pitch to meet the RFU’s high standards, whilst every other part of the club was already adhering to the governing bodies rules.
Sevenoaks then started life in England Rugby’s National 2 East Division with an away match at Westcliff in Essex, a game which they won 12 29 However, their much anticipated first home fixture of the season against Blackheath was labelled as postponed on their social media channels, a few hours before the news that Queen Elizabeth II had sadly passed away
Whilst football’s governing body, The FA, had decided a clean sweep across all competitive football in the country, the RFU and rugby in general was allowed to continue, thereby giving clubs and their supporters an outlet to pay their respects to Her Majesty Unfortunately not at Knole Paddock though The reason for this untimely announcement from SRFC was due to the pitch not being fit for purpose, as assessed in person by inspectors of the RFU
The summer drainage work at the ground had led to this unsatisfactory decision, and the club were not only heartbroken that they couldn’t fulfil their obligations to their opponents and their supporters but were also aggrieved at the loss of revenue the club would have taken on such a prestigious occasion
Two weeks later and the pitch was still not at a standard that the RFU find acceptable despite 80 tonnes of sand being laid in the past few weeks. This figure is now up to over 500 tonnes of sand since the summer.
In a statement from SRFC they announced: “Regretfully we have no choice but to change the venue for our
“We have been able to secure an alternative venue through the ongoing support of Sevenoaks School, so whilst the pre and post match elements will be at the club, the game itself will be played five minutes up the road.”
1st XV game on Saturday 24th September against Dorking RFC Again our pitch has failed an RFU inspection and been deemed not fit for purpose
It is at this point we should note that the rugby club do not own or lease the land on which they play, and have played on since around 1925, but rather rent it from Sevenoaks Town Council (STC). Knole Paddock is marked as an Open Space area of the town and was handed down from Lord Sackville, via Sevenoaks District Council, and eventually into the hands of the Town Council, for recreational use by the Sevenoaks community. The Vine Cricket Pitch has an identical status to Knole Paddock, having been bequeathed to the local community, meaning that the land cannot be sold on for development
In communications seen by Sevenoaks Sport and Wellbeing between STC and the rugby club, Trevor Nicholson, Sevenoaks Rugby Club’s Chairman said: “The 1st XV pitch desperately needed watering during the recent drought following slit drainage/sand work that was done too late this was allowed during the hosepipe ban if you applied to the water company for a licence to use a sprinkler
“STC failed to do this so the club applied for a licence and we did it ourselves using our own metered water. I think anyone would agree that this is not acceptable both in terms of our costs, time and your [STC’s] unwillingness to explore all possibilities
“We are almost your only customer at the paddock, spending around £30,000 per annum on rental for our seniors on Saturdays and the 800 plus juniors on
Sundays. We are one of the largest providers of community sport in the area, yet nobody seems to care whether or not we play we’d like to think the town would be proud of what we do rather than hinder it ”
Linda Larter, CEO and Clerk to STC responded to our request for a response said: “I think it would be helpful to first establish that the Knole Paddock is a Public Open Space which is used on a Pay and Play basis by sports clubs
“With this in mind STC has to be mindful of the public open space being available to all its users general public, cricket, football, and rugby.
“STC have committed to investing a lot in the grounds with additional drainage and new floodlights
“The drainage works to Knole Paddock agreed in consultation with SRFC have been extensive Ideally STC would have liked to have started the work much earlier in the year but SRFC did not want to lose any of its fixtures. This meant that unfortunately cricket fixtures had to be cancelled to enable the work to take place The long drought did not help with the process of the grounds recovering from the drainage work and delays to grass germinating and preventing weed killing
“The Town Council has used a well respected professional contractor for these works, who we used for similar works in the past and who is used on
other grounds, e g at Greatness Recreation Ground for football pitches, and we are following their recommendations for works to restore the ground to meet the level required by SRFC for its league matches and other uses of the public open space ”
SRFC are actually in the same situation as Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club. The rugby club would simply like to move to a situation whereby they have the same agreements and rights as other clubs who lease other open spaces in the town.
Sevenoaks Sport and Wellbeing did some research which included watching a recent STC Open Spaces and Leisure Committee meeting on YouTube, which was held on July 4th, 2022 In the meeting were a number of articles from SRFC that had been brought to the attention of the town councillors, asking for permission for certain things including additional ambulance access to the pitch, new road signage, sponsorship boards and an additional point of sale for an outdoor hot food facility (a BBQ). After debating for near an hour, the councillors were unable to reach a decision on any of the above matters, citing that they did not have enough information to decide, which is their right of course, as elected members of the town council.
However, it was surprising to hear the way in which it was debated, it was not from the point of view that they now have a first class, National Level 4 rugby club in the town, but more that their tenants were asking for a lot of upgrades This half glass empty approach to SRFC’s plight was only lifted briefly by Cllr Merilyn Canet who had nothing but praise for the Knole Paddock club, saying it was a fantastic community club and that other councillors should pay a visit on a match day Most declined to comment on this, however it was even more surprising
to hear one councillor admitting that he had never been to a match in all his years on the town council It was also at this meeting that the Open Spaces Manager, Nicholas Cave, announced that the Additional drainage works at Knole Paddock had been completed. Again, this meeting took place at the start of July, so why wasn’t the pitch ready in September? Sure the drought didn’t help, but if the rugby club had been in charge of maintaining their own pitch, then they would have ensured it was ready in time for the start of the new season.
We understand that the council have concerns surrounding Knole Paddock and its purpose as a public open space and also it’s use for football and cricket. There are currently two rugby pitches, two cricket squares and a football pitch However after investigating, it seems that just three clubs currently rent and use the ground; SRFC, Wilderpark Football Club; and Orpington Ocelots Cricket Club. Yes that’s right, an Orpington cricket club, who have actually just been granted planning permission to erect two outdoor practice nets on the ground Simply why a sports club from outside the town, and even outside the district, has use of the ground is quite baffling. We do not disagree with the council’s response that they spend a lot of money on the ground, but it is not mentioned here that they do so at a loss each year
And it remains unclear why SRFC are being treated differently when they are actually in the same situation as Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club The rugby club would simply like to get to a situation whereby they have the same agreements and rights as other clubs who lease other open spaces in the town
The outstanding question is Should Sevenoaks Town Council actually be acting as a sports facilities operator, with tax payers’ money?
We hope that both parties can come to a sensible agreement moving forward so this situation doesn’t happen again in the future SRFC have been at the centre of the town since 1925, it would be great if they were still there in 2125
Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing always likes to fact check their articles before they are published Below is a summary of information which is free to obtain from the STC website: Both Sevenoaks Town FC and Sevenoaks Vine Cricket Club lease their pitches for just one peppercorn per annum. Sevenoaks Town then rent their other pitch at a cost of £520 per annum They both pay separately for the use of the buildings In Sevenoaks Town FC’s case, it’s just £1 per annum plus their own in house maintenance charges Sevenoaks Vine is £3,500 per annum, again with their own in house maintenance charges
All the document states regarding Sevenoaks Rugby Club at Knole Paddock, is that the club pay £3,750 00 (it does not state the occurrence of this payment and what it is actually for) and that they commenced an agreement in 2020 for five years which expires in December 2025. Both the football club and the cricket club pay for their own maintenance of their respective grounds, and with machinery involved this can run into thousands of pounds There is also the Sevenoaks District Council Play Pitch Strategy document from 2017 before they passed it on to STC, which clearly states how Sevenoaks Rugby Club would benefit from longer leases and assistance from the council going forward
What has happened in the past and what happens now?
Many of you will have followed Tom’s career with his monthly Sevenoaks Sport & Wellbeing column, giving us an insight into the highs and lows of a professional athlete, so it is only fitting that we caught up with him on his retirement announcement and his plans for the future. In a remarkable career, Tom made his GB debut in 2009 and competed at the Olympic games in Rio and Tokyo He has won 21 national titles and holds the World records for one mile and the 3000m indoors and outdoors, plus the British record for the 20k race walk
In what’s been an incredible career with some absolutely amazing achievements along the way, can you tell us which moment in your career was your all time stand out moment?
It’s hard for me to put it down to one moment I never dreamed of reaching the levels I did Just making my first major championships was a dream come true. I just kept setting new goals when I achieved one and never put a limit on it. I guess if I had to choose one it would be the Rio Olympics, my true break through race, breaking my own 20km national record and then proposing to my fiancé on the beach in Rio afterwards, topped off an incredible few weeks
How and when did you make that difficult decision to retire?
It wasn’t easy, last Christmas I wasn’t able to train after having several facet joint injections in my spine and an epidural The year before had also been ruined due to injury I hoped this might fix the problem It did, but it took so much away from me it was up and down all year and I didn’t have the time to put any consistent training together. So in the spring I chose not to risk my body and the next two years until the Paris Olympics It felt right to enjoy this summer and go with whatever happens and be able to walk away from my career on my terms And that’s what I did.
Training takes away from your everyday life and I was ready for a new start, new challenges and some time at home I knew that was the key sign to knowing this was the right time
You chose your last race to be at Tonbridge Athletics Club as a homage to your coach, your friends and family and indeed to the club itself that helped develop your career. How emotional was that?
I wanted a way to give back to everyone who was there at the start and I thought what better way than doing a local race back at my home club. Just how I started in the sport
The race was brilliantly supported by a range of athletes, all ages and abilities and that’s what athletics is about, it was fantastic to see so many wanting to be involved in my final race
But what was more emotional was that so many people did turn out Friends and my close and extended family turned up, friends from the athletics community turned up also, and I was blown away by the crowd that was there
It was beyond what I could have hoped for and the club did a fantastic job holding the entire day of athletics.
It was so special seeing people I hadn’t seen for over ten years and having my first coach there as well as athletes new and experienced. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to end
You have almost single handily raised the profile of race walking here in the UK with your wonderful, likeable personality. Is this important to your legacy?
I hope all I’ve done is demonstrated that with a little explanation the event can be better understood Not only that people then learn that race walkers walk faster than many can run!
Along with the risk and jeopardy of getting red cards from the judges and possible disqualification it’s pretty exciting.
It was never my intention to try and change the sport in any way, it happened naturally as we went and it was hugely down to my team in Leeds who helped me get the Diamond League races on But it was also the time spent within the athletics community and their support that meant my races suddenly were fully covered by various TV channels just like any other athletics event is
You have opened up candidly about your mental health and encouraging people to talk. It will have been a massive support to many people out there.
I hope so, it came as a bit of a shock to me I didn’t read the signs early enough
I wish I’d had some sort of indication at how bad things can get without you realising. My message is learning to realise these, acknowledging them and taking some small steps, which will ultimately prevent things from getting worse and jeopardising your wellbeing.
You are also incredibly supporting of all the young athletes and future athletes out there, encouraging youngsters who may not be good at sport to keep trying. Why this is so important to you?
Because I was awful when I was a kid! Today’s world, what with social media, everyone feels they need to be an expert right away But how can you be! And if you give up after the first few tries, you’re never going to achieve anything, I just want people to realise there is a long learning to everything
It’s not a dream or goal if it’s easy to achieve So, enjoy the process, keep turning up and see where it takes you It’s a long game to master any skill but so rewarding when you get there, especially if you’d enjoyed the process.
You were also the first track and field athlete in the UK to come out openly as gay. This would have been incredibly inspiring to other LGBT athletes. How do you think the world of athletics is doing regarding LGBT equality?
I never realised the issue and the under representation of the LGBT community in sport until I came out. My story went worldwide and I didn’t really understand why. As I educated myself more and more, I learned the importance of being visible I understood the importance to encourage the right environments for working and within sport. This ultimately just comes down to people’s wellbeing. The happier people are, the more comfortable they feel, the better performance they will put in, which is ultimately what is crucial in elite sport
What are your plans for the future? Do you have an exclusive on any jungle or strictly call ups? Would you do any of them if asked?
I certainly would consider these opportunities I mean I’m pretty squeamish, so I’d be comedy gold in the jungle But I’m remaining heavily involved in the sport whilst also building my own commercial career away from the athletics track.
Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers?
I think I’d just like to thank everyone in my home county of Kent and all those around the country who have supported me over the years. It’s been an integral part of my success and I felt I had so much purpose as I got better, and more people took an interest It was a pleasure representing my country for over thirteen years
I never dreamed of reaching the levels I did. Just making my first major championships was a dream come true. I just kept set ting new goals when I achieved one and never put a limit on it.
Thousands of cycli sts are already aware of the health benefits of cycling whether it be off roading, racing, a gentle ride throug h the countrys ide, or us ing a bike for their commute
The restrictions caused by the recent pandemic also saw more people getting back in the saddle and this has led to an increase in riders combining cycling with their annual holiday or a short break trip.
Touring European destinations by bicycle is affordable, eco friendly and a great way to explore new places surrounded by breath taking scenery
It can be done individually, as a group, or as a family activity You can choose to base yourself in one place and explore different areas each day or plan a route with different stopping places on the way
Data was gathered on the number of biking trails per country using Alltrails*, a reputable hiking trail aggregator, to find out which are the best countries in Europe for bike touring by calculating the number of trails per 1,000 km² of each country Here are their results.
There has been a large increase in the number of people taking cycling holidays in Europe. But where should they be heading? Travel Editor Frank Baldwin investigates.
Switzerland is a cyclists’ paradise with an estimated 92 trails per 1,000 km². One popular biking trail to consider if you want to explore Switzerland on two wheels is the route from the country’s capital Geneva, to Lake Constance, the central European lake that borders Germany, Austria and Switzerland You don’t have to cycle it all, but if you are inclined, this route is approximately 526 km (326 miles) and you will get a chance to see most of Switzerland’s natural beauty.
The United Kingdom comes in second place as the best country in Europe for its bike touring routes 92 trails per 1,000 km² One of the most scenic biking trails in the UK is the Great North Trail, starting in the Peak District and going all the way to John o’Groats in the far north of Scotland This route is 1,287 48 km (800 miles) long and you’ll be able to see Loch Lomond, the Yorkshire Dales, Trossachs National Park, Loch Ness, the Peak District, and Kielder Forest along the way
The third most popular country for bike touring routes is Germany with 24 trails per 1,000 km² One of the most beautiful routes is the Elbe Cycle Path (Elberadweg) With a length of 894 km (555 miles), the path begins at the North Sea in Cuxhaven, it crosses seven German federal states before ending in the Czech Republic
Denmark has 21 biking trails per 1,000 km². If you enjoy being around bodies of water, the Furesø Rundt is a trail that makes you explore all around lake Furesø The landscapes are very varied, from forests to flower bursting fields, and of course, the lake itself, this is a great place not only for biking but also for camping.
It is well known that cycling is popular with the Dutch, so it is a bit of a surprise the research found the country to be only the fifth best for bike touring routes with an estimated 18 per 1,000 km²
available cycling trails. One particular trail to experience is the Pijnacker Rotterdam route.
Going for approximately 40 km (25 miles), you will pass over the two bridges across the river Maas
In sixth place is Italy with 12 biking trails per 1,000 km². If you would like to explore the combined beauty of the sea and mountains, the biking trail in Liguria called ‘Riviera dei Fiori’ is the one for you. Stretching across 25 km (15 miles), you will have the opportunity to visit beautiful cities and towns such as Cipressa and Sanremo.
In seventh place we have France with 11 biking trails per 1,000 km². A breath taking route in France is the Véloroute du Lin & Littoral Cycle Route This path runs from Hautot sur Mer to Fécamp and is 75km (47 miles)
With 10 biking trails per 1,000 km², Spain is the eighth best European country to be explored whilst cycling. One of Spain’s top biking routes is from Teruel to Valencia Vía Verde de Ojos Negros If you prefer mountain trails, another option is the Transpirenaica which goes from Cabo de Higuer to Cabo de Creus
In ninth place is Austria with nine biking trails per 1,000 km² Again, if
you are a big fan of lakes, Vorarlberg Trail and Bodensee Lake Loop is a scenic trail between Bludenz and Bregenz that offers a variety of attractions and activities such as hiking, fishing, and even shopping
With three biking trails per 1,000 km² available, Hungary is the 10th best European country for bike touring routes. If you are interested in exploring the beauty around Lake Balaton, the Siofok Loop from Szabadifürdő is a great trail to follow This tour is only 162 km (101 miles) long and it also includes a scenic ferry trip!
*The research was carried out by LiveRugbyTickets co uk, the online ticket exchange market place for sports fans, in conjunction with Alltrails
The VO2 ma x measurement is taken from a test done on a bike or treadmill while connected to a machine capable of analysing your expired air.
Have you ever glanced down at your fitness watch and seen the measurement ‘VO₂ max’, or heard it brought up in conversation after your spin class and yet have been awkwardly ignorant of what it means? Fear not!
This month’s Better Body Group article will not only answer this question, but will also prove how knowing your VO₂ max could be the key to living longer We all can attest to the fact that improving your cardiovascular levels has a direct correlation to reducing your risk of dying, mainly because we’ve been told so our whole lives
While that is by all means true, it is also an incredibly vague statement What if you want a more precise and concrete measure? Enter VO₂ max
So firstly, what is your VO₂ max? Put simply, it’s the maximum oxygen you use and can consume while you exercise Essentially, it’s a measure of your endurance. It is for this reason that it’s labeled the primary marker for longevity. The measurement is taken from a test done on a bike or treadmill while connected to a machine capable of analysing your expired air
The data is then used to place you in one of five groups: low; below average; above average; high; and elite To add some context, elite endurance athletes usually have a VO₂ max above 50
So what is the motivation to get measured and strive for the above average group?
Studies show that going from the low to below average group gives you a 50% drop in mortality over 10 years That’s an incredible statistic!
What number should you be striving for?
It should be noted that it all depends on your age, history and current fitness level, but that an average active male should aim for around 42.5 46.4 kg/min. To get even more specific, the Better Body Group recommend seeing one of their exercise specialists, as each case varies
• Accurate measurement of current fitness
• Ability to design a more effective training program and/or evaluate effectiveness
• Evaluating effectiveness of training program
• Predication of maximal steady state running speed or cycling wattage
This test is available for anyone who is interested, and the Better Body Group is so incredibly proud to announce that they’re in the process of setting up their own VO₂ max testing area This will benefit a huge amount of people and will push their clients in a whole new dimension
Ask yourself if this test is for you? As author and physician Peter Attia says: “If you want to have the aspiration of kicking ass when you’re 85, you can’t afford to be average when you’re 50.”
• Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Better Body Group to find out more We all love a challenge, and what reason is more perfect than improving your life and your mortality ?
Danae Van Den Berg, is a Better Body Group Exercise Specialst Danae graduated from Loughborough University with a degree in English and Sports Science and spent her time there training as part of the university’s Powerlif ting team For more information or to book an appointment please call them on 01732 451979 or email enquiries@betterbodygroup co uk
First ask how much passion and perseverance you have for your own life goals. Then ask yourself how likely it is that your approach to parenting encourages your child to emulate you. Your children will be watching you.
Grit by Angela Duck wor th
We often talk in our workshops about how parents still hold the biggest influence over their children and their behaviours despite the huge impacts that can also be made by teachers, coaches and relatives We also know that the biggest achievements made by young children are when coach/parent or teacher/coach are working together to deliver the same consistent messages and behaviours
If this is the case, the responsibility we have as parents around our children’s sport is huge as our children will be watching and listening to us
All of the behaviours that we exhibit, what we value, what we say and how we deal with situations will be taken at face value by our children and likely repeated
How many times in sport have we heard statements come from a child’s mouth and we think, ‘you can’t have come up with that, who has put those words into your mouth?’
Children inherently take their cues from parents We help them develop how they should feel about the world and others, the manner in which they interact, and the beliefs they carry. We shape their system of thought and action with our own
We can’t help it We get comfortable with them always being around us and slip into adult conversations within earshot We assume they tune us out when they have their devices surgically attached to their eyeballs We figure the music or TV has created a barrier of white noise allowing us to speak freely Here are just some examples from a sporting context where some of our behaviours and actions may have a far more negative impact than we would like them to:
Talking about other players, parents and the coach in earshot of your children
Little people have big ears and will often repeat what you have said at the wrong time and inadvertently we have potentially damaged our child’s relationship with their teammates and their coach. This can lead to your child potentially not passing to teammates and criticising them heavily when they make mistakes
Your child may lose their joy of sport if you see this as the only success criteria. The process is more important than the outcome and you potentially rob your child of taking joy in the many things that they achieve during the sporting experience if you focus too heavily on the winning
This is potentially damaging to your child’s mindset and their attitude towards others.
Our children will take the lead from us
If we are shouting at officials, you can guarantee that they will then start criticising and questioning decisions made by them. Surely, in the cold light of day we can recognise that there is no real place for this in children’s sport.
Turning a match into a ‘Big Match’
Many of us can often take on a tribal approach when it comes to playing local opposition and teams that we may not like, and we pass this influence on to our children. To a child, without our input it is merely another game
I do have to say, I personally have seen a couple of instances where this has led to the poorest performances from my own child’s team when the parents have made it something bigger than it actually was.
These are just a few examples and the biggest problem for us sometimes as parents is, we just get so competitive, we can’t help but pick on other things
We want to feel better about our own child’s shortcomings, and there’s no better way than pointing out the failings of other people (officials, other players, coaches and parents)
It is our defence mechanism. We want to see our children succeed We cannot fathom them being the weak one or being flawed
We justify their development by looking for the flaws in others. When we see other’s shortcomings, we feel better knowing our child isn’t the only one. “Misery loves company”
However, the next time you think of having one of those inevitable chats with your partner or another parent, try to make sure that your child is not in
earshot. You are their major role model and everything you do will be taken at face value by them
Think about what you want your child to see and hear, how you want them to behave and how you want them to perceive the world Remember they will be watching and listening to you for their cue!
Gordon MacLelland is the CEO and founder of Working with Parents in Spor t , which suppor ts parents and coaches in working together to provide children with the best possible spor ting experiences To find out more about their work please visit www.parentsinspor t.co.ukChildren inherently take their cues from parents. We help them develop how they should feel about the world and others.
Although it is difficult to detect clinically, low magnesium is a common problem in western societ y. Processed foods, fat, refined flour and sugars are all devoid of magnesium therefore western diets can predispose us to a magnesium deficiency. Identif ying the early symptoms and warning signs can be helpful to avoid serious health conditions.
The main cause of the low magnesium is the loss of this mineral during modern day food processing and refining methods1. Modern farming practices have also contributed to declining levels of nutrients in crops A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition compared modern day nutrient content of vegetables with 1950 levels and found that declines are as much as 40%!2
Our busy lifestyle also contribute to the low levels of magnesium. Magnesium is also utilised by the body in higher amounts when we are stressed Alcohol acts as a magnesium diuretic causing an increase in the urinary excretion of this mineral3. Low dietary intake alongside alcohol consumption and higher needs for this mineral may contribute to low levels of magnesium across the general population
As an essential mineral magnesium is involved in over 600 functions in our body With so many functions the depletion of this mineral can cause many possible symptoms, which may include: nausea, loss of appetite, blood sugar imbalance, low energy and fatigue, muscle cramps and spasms, sleep disturbances, PMS syndrom, headaches, constipation, inability to cope with stress.
There are many common health problems associated with the low levels of magnesium Depleting levels of magnesium can be a contributing factor in many common and chromic health concerns such as high blood pressure, blood clots, chronic migraines, infertility, heart disease, asthma, cystitis, anxiety, gastrointestinal diseases, depression and sleep disorder In younger people, magnesium deficiency may prevent bone growth It is therefore crucial to get enough magnesium during early childhood when the bones are still developing Magnesium deficiency is often referred to as the “invisible deficiency’ because it is very difficult to detect clinically. Most of the tests available are blood tests however less than 1% of the bodies magnesium levels are found in the
blood, and only 0.3% are found in serum Serum Magnesium is kept by the body under control and even if there is a sign of nutritional deficiency, their levels come up normal.
The majority (99%) of the body’s magnesium is found in bone, muscles and non muscular soft tissue4.
Also many of the signs of magnesium deficiency can overlap with common symptoms of other health concerns which make clinical diagnosis even more difficult
To prevent magnesium deficiency, it is important to eat a balanced diet containing magnesium rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and whole grains Baths enhanced with Magnesium salts or supplements can also help to boost our daily intake.
References:
1 ncbi nlm nih gov/pmc/articles/PMC5786912
2 Worthington V Nutritional quality of organic versus conventional fruits, vegetables and grains J Altern Complement Med 7: 161 173, 2001
3 pubmed ncbi nlm nih gov/7836619/
4. Jahnen Dechent W, Ketteler M. Magnesium Basics Clin Kidney J 2012 Feb; 5 (Suppl 1): i3 i14
Magdalena Mar vell is a Nutritional Practitioner and Founder of the Persea Clinic which helps suppor t clients who want to optimise their health in areas such as gut health, hormonal balance, skin conditions, weight management, family nutrition To find out more about her work please visit www persea clinic
This stew is a per fect warming meal for the colder autumnal months. Swiss chard and peanuts are both a great source of Magnesium which may help you to optimise your daily intake allowing for bet ter sleep and relaxation Enjoy!
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 cup of diced onion
• 1 tablespoon of peeled and minced fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
• salt
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
•1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
•1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 4 cups of vegetable stock
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 tin of crushed tomatoes
• 150g of Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
•1 cup of smooth salted peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons of chopped coriander
1 In large sauce pan, heat olive oil over medium heat Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes
2. Add ginger, garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, cinnamon, cayenne, and black pepper. Sauté for a further 2 minutes, stirring constantly
3. Add stock and the sweet potatoes.
4 Bring to boil then simmer over medium high heat for 10 15 minutes, until sweet potatoes are cooked
5 Add tinned tomatoes and Swiss chard. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the Swiss chard is soft
6. Add peanut butter and stir well into a smooth consistency
7. Ladle the stew over rice and garnish with coriander
The Br icklayers Arms is just
drive from Sevenoaks town centre and easily accessible from other
of Kent, Sussex and Surrey from the A21 and M25. Despite being so accessible, we sit opposite a
sailing lake in the picturesque village of Chipstead.
We serve Harvey's beer straight from the barrel, along with freshly prepared, good quality British pub food. You can be sure to warm yourself up this winter with one of our homemade pies and a pint of Harvey's Sussex Best Bitter by our roaring open log fire.
Every Tuesday evening at 8.00pm we host our ever popular Quiz Night, remember to book a table as it can get very busy. Plus Live Music on Friday’s and Sunday’s (please check our social media pages for up-to-date artists and times).
We are a Harvey’s Brewery pub which maintains a 4.5 star rating on TripAdvisor. Darren and his team of staff look forward to welcoming you soon, so please do come down to see what you’re missing! Eat, Drink, Relax and Repeat.
