Sunday's  'Walk for Joan 2004' along the Peel to Douglas railway line raised £497 for young athletes.

Almost 80 people gathered in brilliant sunshine on Mill Road, Peel with the mist looming ominously over the headland. Joan's brother Peter lead a few minutes of quiet reflection before officially starting the event. Amongst the walkers were many well know local athletics personalities, young and old, as well as a good number of people not associated with athletics - all taking advantage of the fine weather on what must have been the hottest day of the year so far. It was especially pleasing to see so many young people including a number of junior racewalkers who had travelled on the overnight ferry arriving in Douglas at 6am Sunday morning after a successful days competition in Sheffield.

It was thirst work for everyone walking along the 9.5 mile route and there was a welcome cup of tea and homemade cakes for everyone arriving back at the Manx Harriers Clubhouse. Many thanks to all who took part and helped raise money for our young athletes. Thanks also to all who made cakes and helped in the clubhouse before and after the event.

Paul Jackson

The popular Manx Harriers 'Walk for Joan' event takes place on Sunday 25th April 2004.

This non competitive sociable walk starts at 1.30pm from Mill Road, East Quay, Peel by the Power Station.

The route follows the old Peel to Douglas railway line finishing at the Quarterbridge & followed by refreshments in the Manx Harriers Clubhouse. 

Entry on the line is £5 for adults & £2.50 for children.

All money raised will go to the Joan Powell fund for young athletes.

EVERYONE WELCOME!!!!

Further information from Paul Jackson Tel: 487873

CAKES & MARSHALS REQUIRED by Paul Jackson

A reminder about the 'Walk for Joan' event this Sunday 25th April 2004 starting at 1.30pm in Peel by the Power Station and heading along the old Peel to Douglas railway line and finishing at the Quarterbridge. Entry on the line is £5 for adults & £2.50 for children. All money raised will go to the Joan Powell fund for young athletes.

If anyone is willing to bake a cake for the bunfight in the Manx Harriers Clubhouse at the finish, please bring their creations along to the start and hand to one of the organisers. There is a prize for best cake.

Steve Partington, apparently a legend in Manx Athletics cake making should start favourite, whilst Bridget Kaneen's delicious scones (with homemade jam and cream) are likely to be a strong challenger. Watch out also for Marie Latham who could produce another personal best Lemon Drizzle (although I'm not prepared to speculate on the popularity of Steve Taylor's fairy buns).