Exciting New Development for C&CAC!

Nine years ago, a project was conceived to build a track adjacent to Carver Barracks, Wimbish, near Saffron Walden. Our own Mo Park was involved from the outset, playing a major role in all aspects of the project, while at the same time continuing to coach, and sit on the Committee, at C&C.

The track will be owned and maintained by the army, but some of the funding came by way of a grant from the local council, and the facility is for the use of both army and public. It should be said that getting this project through to completion is a massive achievement by the army, supported by the local community. It is one of, possibly the only, facility of its type, to be opened in recent years in England. Now that it is there, everyone who played a part in its development, is keen to see that it gets well used!

The facility was largely completed at the end of last year. At various stages throughout the project, Mo has been in discussion with Neil, Keith, and more latterly, myself, about how C&C could help, or even partner with, any new local club that could evolve at the new track.

Mo and I were in further discussions recently, when Mo had what he describes as a “light bulb” moment! It came to him that the best and most organic way forward would be to form a C&C “sister club” at the new site. I was in happy agreement!

Mo drew up a proposal and this was put to the Club Committee, and then discussed at the monthly meeting held just this week. It received enthusiastic support!

This will mean:

• The club has the use of a second track facility. This could be particularly advantageous when, for example, the Cambridge track is re-laid, which is likely to happen in the next couple of years.
• All new joining athletes will be fully fledged C&C members, following exactly the same rules, ethos, culture, and inclusiveness. We will all be competing in the famous C&C colours! There will be no “second claim” issues.
• An increased catchment area for growing club membership.
• A source of “new blood” for volunteers, coaches, and officials. We are very confident that the army will be good provider here.

There is also an on-site gym, and we are currently in negotiation with the army to enable member access.

There will hard work to be done, especially in the early months. However, Mo, with the support of the rest of the committee, and some eager volunteers in the local area, is attacking the challenges with incredible energy, enthusiasm and determination! We hope that the first C&C sessions could be held there as early as the end of July, or early August.

Please be assured as well, that we will not allow our attention to be distracted from Cambridge. We expect continuing “business as usual” at our home site.

On the 13th July, the next Arkwright League 5k fixture takes place at Carver Barracks. This is an opportunity to come and take a look at the facility. Even if you won’t be running the 5k, why not pop over anyway? We could have a nice club gathering over there, with an opportunity to view the brand-new track, discuss, and ask questions.

Also, I’m sure that the Striders, as hosts of the run, would welcome anyone who was willing to help marshal!

In summary, this is a very exciting opportunity for Cambridge and Coleridge A.C. to take another step forward. We can play an even greater role in developing athletic talent, helping more people to get fitter, healthier, and find new friendships, through our great sport, and our great club!

Let’s grab this opportunity with both and hands and run with it!