We entered 2 teams in the 4x4 600 kilos competition on the Saturday. Ayrshire from Scotland also entered a team. Sheen B team pulled Ayrshire first. Pulling for Sheen B, Joe, John, Tracey, Siobhaun, John, Zoe ,Julie & Andy with Jim Coaching.
Sheen B then pulled Sheen A, with Sheen B narrowly beating Sheen A. Pulling for Sheen A. Di, Ralph, Des, Dawn, Andy, Lucinda & Gemma, coached by Duncan.
The Final was between Sheen B & Ayrshire, this was a close final with both sides attacking, with Ayrshire having a more balanced side, they took both ends, both teams made this a good final to watch.
On the Sunday, we pulled in the 520 kilos Ladies competition against Ayrshire.Who last year helped us with our training in the build up to the World games, aswell as Heather & Elaine pulling with us. This was to be the best of 5 ends. We had an excellent start, we had a good drop pushing constant pressure at Ayrshire,we kept a good height staying on our legs, we were well aware that they are a very tough team to beat, so we had to stay focused,as they tried to start to slow push, we settled for a moment, then with a big left we finished off the first end in victory. Our last competitive pull was back on November 22nd & then restricted to only 2 training sessions since then & after a big night out, our fortunes were about to change.
On the second end, we had a big drop pushing hard with Ayrshire defending hard, finally they stopped us, taking us down to the mat, getting up was proving difficult & the judge gave us 2 quick caution, as we got up, both teams went down & the judge felt he needed to blow us out. The lack of training & night out had taken its toll & we had nothing left in our legs to give, with Ayrshire taking the next 2 ends giving them a 3-1 win.It was good to be able to finish off our indoor season, with a competition, it was great to see Di back pulling, who was unable to pull at our Nationals & for Gemma to make it (finally!). Ayrshire, who may be off to Italy for the World Indoor Championships, we would like to wish them all the best at the World Indoor Championships.
We had a good long break til the start of the 4x4 open competition, which gave us time to recover from everything. The first pull was between Sheen A & B, with both teams teams doing everything to win after 2 good ends it was the A side that won both ends, Then Sheen B came up against BRC, taking control of this pull, working well together & took both ends for a fine victory. Last for Sheen B they pulled Ayrshire. After having a good drop taking rope they defended well pushed hard at them again butagainst a strong Ayrshire side, Ayrshire started to find their rhythm, Sheen B made them work hard to take any rope but Ayrshire took both ends. Sheen B came 3rd in the group & waited to find out their opposition for the semi-finals.
Sheen A, pulled a tacticle 2 ends against Ayrshire, after taking the rope from the drop, they defended making Ayrshire push hard & for every inch of rope til they took Sheen A over the line. On the second end, after a good drop Sheen A stay in control pushing well against Ayrshire to level the pull. Last up was BRC, dropping fast Sheen A took control of this pull not allowing BRC anytime to settle to defend & Sheen A went on to win both ends. Sheen A came joint top with Ayrshire but being lighter came top of group & were drawn against Sheen B in the semi finals.
In the semi finals, after couple of tight ends, its was Sheen A who went into the Final & Sheen B would pull for Bronze medal against BRC. The Bronze pull of was a close encounter with both teams battling it out, after some good defending Sheen B, took control using their power to work hard pushing BRC over the line. On the second end the determination from Sheen B from the drop gave BRC not much hope, as Sheen took rope BRC hit the mat , but Sheen carried their rope to finish off BRC & won the Bronze medal. Sheen B team: Ralph, Di, John, Lucinda, Des, Andy, Zoe, Gemma & coached by Jim.
In the Final, this was a close run pull, with Ayrshire the currant UK open Champions, they had to defend well as Sheen A took the early advantage , then defended bouncing out the lifts from Ayrshire then a good left from Sheen A started them on their way back having to push hard not to allow Ayrshire the chance to stop them as Sheen A took the first end. On the second end, after a good drop taking rope then defending not to let Ayrshire start to get in to their rhythm, Sheen A pushed on with constant pressure Ayrshire had no answer & Sheen A took the end to take the Gold medal. Sheen A team: Joe, John, Tracey, Siobhaun, Paul, Dawn, Julie, Andy & were coached by Duncan. Well done to both teams, this was the first time we've had entered a 4x4 & it proved to be a good competition allowing us some extra pulling, as there is not much competition for the Ladies to pull in at Indoor.
NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS.
This National Championships, we were unable to field a side. Due to only having 7 pullers available to pull at the Championships. Despite all our endeavours to fine another puller, we left it as late as we could to weigh in but to no joy.This was a big disappointment for us, as this would have been a excellent competition against Leek, as they have had the upper hand on us, over the past few weeks, but to pull Leek at an even weight, we felt that we would have been able to reverse the past few weeks results, this would have been an exciting & close competition. We now have a week off, then start training again, ready for the United Kingdom Championships which are being held in Wales.
HARRY MITCHELL CENTRE, SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM.
This week we entered the 580 Kilos, we had some excellent pulls in this weight, taking into consideration how light we were against mens team, this gave us some good training. Later we pulled Leek Ladies for 2 ends, again pulling them 2 weights heavier than our side weighed, we made a good effort to get closer to their weight, we borrowed a man, which meant we had to drop a girl off & to change our team round to accommodate getting up to their heavier weight, this wasn't ideal for us but we wanted to continue to have a Ladies competition. To avoid ourselves from having a mauling with drop in & defended making Leek work hard, trying to push against them for the 2 ends, we tried to make it a 3 ender but weight was against us, it was all good training for us.
HARRY MITCHELL CENTRE, SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM.
This week had 8 girls available, we pulled during the mens catchweight. With both teams weighed & stamped in at 520 kilos, so we thought. We started off missing the drop, giving Leek the chance to attack, we regained our positions to defend their strong lifts, we stayed strong & were wearing down Leek, at the right time, we started to build up pressure & pushed hard to take Leek back over the line. Despite Leek being weighed in well over the 520 kilos, this was a hard end to win but at a cost as in this pull Charlotte damaged her knee but continued for the next end.
On the second end we had a far better drop taking Leek well on steady pressure & with inches to go, Charlotte had a come off the rope, as her knee was so painful, she was unable to carry on so we had to walk it in to avoid anymore injuries to our team. After a rest we continued with the Ladies competition. We decided to pull with our 7 girls. Still lighter than Leek, we had a good controlled rope, keeping the presssure on them & took both ends. With Leek not wanting to pull any more than 2 ends.
We asked Sheen mens team to put some lads on to give us more time on the rope, which they sportingly did, we had 5 good ends with them giving us time to build on our team work, which we thank them for their support. Just a couple more weeks to go & it will all be over for another season.
HARRY MITCHELL CENTRE,SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM.
This week gave us some good training against a much heavier Leek team.With Leek having 6 girls available & we had 7 girls, they borrowed a man to make it 7 a side but this made them 58 kilos heavier. This was to make it a difficult day pulling a much heavier team, but its all training. We had to stay very low to slow Leek down, we started to wear down their pushing & finally stopping them, we defended well but we to low to be able to start pushing against them. We used these pulls to our advantage to give our 3 new girls, Siobhaun, Charlotte & Zoe the chance to learn to defend, stay low & stay on our legs.
This week Lucinda made her first guest appearance since the World Games. A good competition was had by all, its was all good training but next week hopefully we will be nearer the same weight which should make it good a good competition for both sides.
HARRY MITCHELL CENTRE,SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM.
This week we pulled 7 a side against Leek Ladies. We weighed in 30 kilos lighter than Leek. We had 2 changes from last week with Siobhaun pulling in her first competition & Julie pulling her first competition since the World Games aswell. Despite the lack of emthusiasum by an official, to pull the Ladies weights earlier with the Catchweight & the 600 kilos,so we had more pulling, we just pulled within the mens 600 kilos.
On our first pull we did not get the drop, giving Leek the advantage to take some rope. Once we got settled, we had to defended Leek`s pushes, we waited, then we made our move to put pressure on Leek & started to take rope , we stayed well on our legs & took the first end. We had a good drop on the second end, we stayed on an angle, we were able to stay down & push constant pressure to take the second end. We continued our good work throughout this weight & remained unbeaten in the 10 ends pullled.
With only 4 trianing sessions, so far this season, we have competed well, working hard for each win. With Siobhaun (pictured) & the rest of the squad is now strating to gell together.
Our best wishes go to Lynsey, who was taken into hospital last week & had her appendix removed. We wish her a speedy recovery from all at Sheen Ladies.
HADEN HILL,CRADLEY HEATH.
We attended our first Indoor competition this season at Cradley Heath. We again have made some good additions to our squad. For the first time for many years there is another Ladies team to pull, Leek Ladies, who like ourselves have a squad of new & experienced pullers. We went to this competition with only 6 pullers & Leek sportingly allowed us to borrow one of their team to make it 7 a side. Both sides weighed in with only 3 kilos difference. Our first pull was after the 620 kilos, we agreed to pull 6 times, this gave the new girls a chance of some live pulling, to teach them on positioning & tactics, they need to learn in a live pull. We had to shuffle our team round which meant Tracey & Dawn pulling in different positions on the rope.
With Zoe & Charlotte(pictured) both pulling at their first competition for us, we had a good drop on the first end & started pushing with a bit of a wobble on half way back, we stopped to regain our rhythm & took the first end. With a quick chat, before we changed ends, we had a better second pull. Throughout the next 4 pulls with Zoe & Charlotte growing in confidence, we were able to go through these pulls without dropping an end.
We had a quick break & resumed our pulling in between the mens weight. Leek swapped over the borrowed pullers, giving us Helen in place of Tara. The first pull was our best pull of the day, with being lighter, we were made to stay down & push hard through our legs we took control from the drop, but with Leek pulling hard against us, we kept our positions well & maintained this till we crossed the line. The second end was a different story, we worked hard to win the first end it took a lot out of our legs & as we started to take the second end Leek started pushing harder & we had no answer, we tried to stop them locking our legs but lost the end. With a short rest we were back on again for our last 2 pulls, we had recovered enough to take both ends.
It was a good competition for us being able to pull against a good tight team, giving Charlotte & Zoe(pictured) their first taste of an Indoor competition & to get back on the mat for the rest of the team, its been a while since our bronze medal winning pull against Japan. Next week it's back to Smethwick.
After 10 months of hard training done, we now set of to the World Games. We would like to thank all those people that have helped us over those months. The Irish Association for the competition at the UK`S, Norton for the use of their mat, Sheen Men, the Scottish lads for the live training & to The Sewing Room from Brownhills for sewing the rubber on the shirts at very short notice & finally to the squad who have gelled as a team, stayed focused on our goals & put in 120% comittment.
The Squad on our last training day.
We had another successful training session in Scotland. With the sunshining it was a shame to stay indoors. We filled the day with some team work & some live pulling, thanks to the Scottish lads & girls for giving up their time to help us with our training not only this weekend but for our last visit to.With the time ticking down to days rather than months, before we go, the exceitments building to what hopefully will be a memorable World Games.
We recently had a visit form Emily Croydon, who is completing her Masters degree in journalism, and who has done a video of our club in our preparation for the World Games. We would like to thank Emily for her time to come to our training session. To view the video go to youtube.com/Sheen Ladies.
We had our 2nd training day on Saturday 25th April with Heather & Elaine from Scotland. Both Heather & Elaine have slotted well into our squad (despite the language barrier,they can know understand our coach) making us more powerful, a tighter side & giving us the ability to change the line up around to make us stronger on the rope. Also with Louise now in full training, gaining more experience on the rope, things are looking good.With the squad full of enthusiasm, we started off the day,with a 2 mile run in the rain, followed by 4 hours doing block work with a bit of tweaking, we have started to work well with, which ever team has been pulling, building pressure against the heavy weight, then finishing off the session with some gruelling hill sprints for the last 45 minutes.
ABI GETSSHEEN LADIES ALL IN A SPIN.
In our build up to the World Games, we have been attending spinning classes for the past eight weeks at The Training Exchange in Stoke. Our session were taken by Abi (dont let that smile deceive you) who has put us through some extreme classes to help building up more power in our legs! All Abi`s hard sessions, which are not for the faint hearted, have paid dividends for our training, with stronger & more powerful legs & the fitness that it brings, we have been able to push up more weight & stay lower on the rope. We would like to thank Abi for the specially arranging the classes for us & to Suzanne & all her staff at the Training Exchange.
There was 3 countries entered the 520 kilos. Our first pull was against Northern Ireland. With a change at weigh in, this gave Louise a chance for some live pulling.We had a shaky start with a judging error but we made a very good recovery to take back the rope we lost, with some constant pushing we drove hard to take the first end. We had a better drop on the second end keeping a good height on the rope allowing us to use our legs to maintain the pressure on N. Ireland to take the second end.
Our second pull was against Scotland, the team we beat to quailify for the World Games. They were missing a couple of their team but still always a good team to pull. Their low style of pulling suited us, so we were able to stay with them using the power in our legs to take control of the pull, always pushing hard to keep them under pressure and we took both ends. We competed again against both Countries with out losing an end and would pull Northern Ireland in the Final.
We stayed focused on the drop, we took the advantage from our excellent drop, to keep the momentum going with constant pressure against N.Ireland, they had no response to our pressure & we took the first end. We dropped in the second end a bit higher and they took that advantage but we regrouped to stopped them & started to take back the rope we lost, with the N.Ireland team starting to fade they took the rope down to the mat, we came up strong & took them back then they came up higher to drop us to the mat but we hit the mat but our momentum took us back and as we came up we took them over the line to win the 520 Gold medal.
On the Saturday There was no Ladies Competition. So we entered the 580 mixed weight. We competed very well despite being only 522 kilos. We made every side work hard to rope from us. We had an excellent pull against Leo`s, we had a excellent drop staying at a good height to keep them under pressure, we pushed hard keeping tight with every push, they found this hard to combat & were soon tiring, they were up & down taking us to the mat, with inches to go the judge gave a no pull. We knew our fitness was a big advantage in these sort of pulls, so we agian dropped in pushed hard and finally took a very important first end. They made a sub for the 3rd end, but we knew that if we continued to work hard not letting them push against us, we would be hard to stop. We took the next end with
We knew our fitness was a big advantage in these sort of pulls, so we again dropped in,pushed hard and finally took the first end. They made a sub for the next end, giving them a chance to recover, but we knew, we would have to drop in hard keep the pressure on them, we took control of this pull to win 2-0. This weight gave our side a good chance for live pulling, which will be our last until July. We would like to thank all those teams, that had great things to say about our pulling style & our fitness.
ENGLAND TRAINING SESSION
Pulling against the mens teams, it is very difficult to try and find a balance to give us a tight rope to pull on. Despite their best efforts and lots of swopping and changing of men bewteen ends to try and balance the teams, we found it hard going. At least the half hour of running and exericses before hand helped us to try and meet our weight targets. Tomorrow nights training should be good, as todays pulling didn't take a lot out of us!
HEROES AND ARMY BENEVOLENT FUND COMPETITION. BORDON. HAMPSHIRE.
On 17th January was our first indoor competition since the National Championships, As we continue in our build up to the World Games in July. With a couple of weeks off, we have been back training for 2 weeeks & this gave us an excellent chance to have some live pulling against Ladies & mens teams. There was a group of 7 teams,we pulled against 5 mens teams, 5th Platoon, 6th Platoon,7th Platoon & Seme and Seme ladies team. It was a catchweight competition,we weighed under 520 kilos.
We were very under estimated by the Platoon teams & gave them all a shock, as we ploughed through each side they put out,But as the day went on these sides started to find out what to do and all improved. We pulled against Seme Ladies 7 a side as we borrowed Louise,we pushed hard to win both ends to come 2nd in the group only losing to Seme mens who were more than 680 kilos.
After an hours break we started the 2nd Catchweight competition of the day. Well it seemed that we were the team everyone wanted to beat in the 2nd Catchweight competition. We started off against the Seme Ladies,we pulled with 7 & they pulled with 8, this gave us a tighter rope to pull against, we came through some tougher pulling to take 2nd place, we had a couple of crowd pleasing 3 enders which we won & again only losing to Seme. It was a good day for all who took part, we would like to thank Lynsey for coming with us & for Louise for pulling with us and to Damo for putting on the competition. After we had a presentation made to us, we started the 3 hour drive back!
INDOOR NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM.
Our first weight of the day was the 560, with 3 teams entered 11 reg & Bordon seme. We pulled 11 reg first, they are the Army Champions, we had not pulled them before today. We had to be focused from the start, we dropped in hard & fast, & stayed low enough for them to have no chance to stop us & powered them out both ends to win 2-0. Next we had Bordon, they have become stronger & tighter side to pull in the past weeks.again we had a good drop pushing constantly keeping them under pressure & took both ends & remain National Champions.
There were the same teams in this weight. We made 1 change from the 560 with Steph in for Debbie.We pulled Bordon first, we dropped in hard and pushed at them, they were not able to stop us, and we went on to a 2-0 victory with them having one eye on pulling 11 reg next. 11 reg was our last pull.With us 2 ends away from another Gold medal, we attacked the drop with constsnt hard pushes, we controlled the pull with them going low to stop us we settled then started to push them over the line.
The 2nd end we pushed hard from the drop then defended what we had taken, with them working hard to move us we stayed strong on our legs bouncing out each lift & then started to take what rope they gave us staying in total control we went on to take the 2nd end, taking the Gold Medal in the 520 for the 6th year in a row.
Our first weight was against Army Ladies 560 kilos, we pulled with our 7 girls weighing at 470 kilos. We pulled this best of 5 in between the cwt pulls. Again this was a competative competition against the Army Ladies with them pulling with 9 girls.
After a short rest we pulled in the 580 with the help of Lamby from Bosley. This was a excellent weight with Kilroe Lincoln Uppertown & Army men to pull. We first had a very tight pull against Kilroe Then we Lincoln. Then we pulled Uppertown this was a excellent pull with them starting with 8, we started to pushed against them taking the momentum from the drop, they started to start pushing against us we started going forward but we defended well stopping them the started pushing harder with them unable to contain our pushing we took the first end, they pulled the next 2 ends with 7 and took ends in this hard fought contest. Our last pull was with the Army Men pulling 8 men as this being their first competition this season, we won both ends in a controled pull.
Our last weight was the 560 with Army Ladies,starting with our new edition to our squad for the World games, Louise. Louise made an excellent start for such a new puller. The Army Ladies started with 10 then went to 9. Again an excellent competition for both sides with no training next week as we have a rest week, this would be our last pull before the Nationals next week. Well done to Army Ladies for gaining a Silver Medal at their Championships on Saturday.
This week we had Rachel & Tracey pulling for Bosley in the 600 & Dawn pulled for Bosley in the 680 bringing them up to weight. We would like to thank all teams for the willingness to support us in helping in our build up to the World Games this season. Dispite us only having the smallest of squads of 9,which meant some weeks we were missing some girls due to work & studying, we were unable to put out a full team after week 2, but we did attended all the competitions & would like to thank all the men who have pulled for us.
HARRY MITCHELL SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM WEEK 6
This week we entered 580,520 & 560, this was the first time we had a Ladies competition. Army Ladies were competing in their first ever indoor competition. We first pulled the 520, we had 7 girls against 9 Army team with 3 men 6 ladies, we were 130 kilos light. This was a good weight for us pulling a heavier Ladies team & some good experience for Army Ladies also for us to pull on the new metal mat,which was an experience, that is if you could see the mat through the metal clips.We had some hard pulls with the Army Ladies which is what you want with the nationals, just round corner.
The next weight was 560, pulled during the mens 600, With Bosley borrowing Tracey & Rachel this ment no rest for them but they are fit.We had the same side in this weight, with the Army Ladies pulling with 8 people, we were only 73.2 kilos light but again we had an excellent chance to pull a tough Army Ladies side, with tirdness & sore toes taking its toll for the Army,our fitness was shining through, this was a great weight for us, we were able to do some tactical work on the rope. Hope the Army Ladies enjoyed their first competition.
Our last weight was the 580 with Raunds, Kilroe & Uppertown. Our first pull was against Uppertown,we always look forward to pulling them as its always a good battle but we pulled them on the new mat, so we slided forward trying to get some momentum but we had as no answer, desptie ripping the soles on a couple of shoes, we tried hard on the second end but to no avail. Next we pulled Raunds with their team full of their best pullers, beat us the first end, but sporting went with 6 men for the second end, which gave us the oppotunity to push against a tight team making us work hard, to take the next 2 ends, but to us its the pulling not the points that matter. Lastly we had Kilroe we were able to push hard to take them, as they started to push against us we tried to contain them but they took us over the line., Thanks to Kilroe for sportingly pulling with 7. Thanks to Dan & Ed (umm) from Bosley who pulled in this weight.
HARRY MITCHELL SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM WEEK 5
We entered the 580 & 600. First was the 580, we had 2 excellent pulls against both Kilroe & Uppertown, Both giving us two hard battles again, which is the best type of training we need,time on the rope,against tight teams who work hard defending while were working hard pushing against them. A big thanks to both Kilroe & Uppertown teams for their attitude towards our Ladies team, also thanks to Phil & Shaun from Norton for pulling in this weight for us.
There were two groups in the 600, thanks to Norton for the chance to have a pull & to Phil & Paul from Norton for pulling for us.
HARRY MITCHELL SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM WEEK 4.
The first weight was the 580 with 5 teams Kilroe Bosley, Uppertown & Lincoln. Uppertown were first, again we had an excellent pull with them, both ends were hard fought battles. We pulled Lincoln for the first time this season & we made a good account of ourselves taking both ends. Thanks to Dave from Bosley for pulling for us. And to all the teams for sportingly dropping a man, giving us excellent pulling.
Next was the 600 with 5 teams. Sheen, Bosley, Uppertown & Kilroe. Weighing in 65 kilos light and with the support of the other teams, we again had some excellent pulling. With another 3 ender against Sheen good tight ends with Kilroe & Uppertown & finishing off with a win against Bosley. Thanks to John from Sheen for pulling with us.
HARRY MITCHELL SMETHWICK. BIRMINGHAM. WEEK 3
This week we entered 580, 600 & 620. The first weight was 580, with teams seeing the power we have pulling at 580, seems to have put teams off entering this weight this week. We had to wait for the 620 to unleash the power. With 3 girls missing, Woody from Bosley & Nigel from BAC,kindly accepted the oppotunity to pull for us. Weighing in just 40 kilos light in 620. We pulled Kilroe, Sheen & Bosley, we worked well from the drops & took Sheen to a 3 ender. With all teams in this weight helping us by pulling with 7, it was a good chance to be able to push on a tight rope.
Our last weight was the 600.We pulled Sheen, Raunds & Kilroe. With Woody & John from Sheen, helping us in this weight, weighing light again, it was only Kilroe who sportingly took the challenge to pull us with 7 men, its was a close pull with both sides having to work hard to take rope, its was another good days pulling for us. Next week is back at Smethwick.
HARRY MITCHELL SMETHWICK, BIRMINGHAM. WEEK 2
This was the second indoor competition. We competed in 3 weights 580, 600 & 640. We competed well in the 580 again Uppertown givivg us an excellent pull & we had an excellent 3 ender with Sheen. This is the kind of pulling we are looking for every week,making us work hard for every inch.
The 600 gave us another good training weight.With the crowd finding it hard to control their emotion, we carried on the good work taking ends off of teams. The 640 was a big ask to take anything out of any team but it was all good, training dropping in against big sides feeling what the World Games will all be all about. There's no place to hide, every move has to be tight, any moving in the height of the rope will send you crashing forward. In all it was a good day for us, again a big thanks to all the teams with there willingness to help us.
HADEN HILL, CRADLEY HEATH. WEEK 1.
Our first end of the new indoor season, was pulling Uppertown in the 580. It was a group of 3 Bosley being the other team.We were able to give both teams a good pull in this weight, pulling against 8 men, both sides kept it tight, so we were able to push against them.
Tracey (no.3) pulling in her first competiton,With Rach & Di.
The second weight was the 600, which was agroup of 5, Sheen,Bosley,Uppertown & Kilroe. With the other teams pulling against us with 6 then 7 menthis gave us an excellent oppotunity to have some real live pulling.We pulled Kilroe first. On the first end they pulled with 6 with some new lads on the rope, the second end they pulled with 7, which was a good tight rope, we were able to get down to a good pushing height and won a very close second end.
Next we had Sheen, who pulled with 6 men, we managed to win the pull, after 2 closely contested ends. Finally we had Uppertown, who again sportingly pulled with 7 men. Both ends were very close, however after a strong battle Uppertwon took both ends. Our thanks go to Tony Hadley for pulling with us in the 600 and to all the mens teams for dropping men to allow us to get some competitive live pulling, which is crucial for our preparation with our sights set on the World Games next year!
The world indoor championships seems so long ago. This season we have two new girls doing indoor for the first time, both of them have picked it up straight away, giving us a bigger & better squad for the forthcoming season. This week is the start of the indoor season at Cradley Heath nr Birmingham.
This is us on our way to winning the Bronze medal beating TTV De Groeve from Holland.This was a fantastic achivement for our club we had 4 new pullers in our team. On our way to winning the bronze medal we beat Badaiotz from Spain, Stans from Switzerland, teams from Lithuania, South Africa & East Kilbride from Scotland.
World Indoor Closed Championships Faenza, Italy 2008
Representing England in the 520. This was a superb competition in which we came 4th. We beat the teams from Lithuania, Scotland, Holland & South Africa. We quilified to represent Great Britian in the World games to be held in Beijiing in 2009.
We entered 2 teams in the 4x4 600 kilos competition on the Saturday. Ayrshire from Scotland also entered a team. Sheen B team pulled Ayrshire first. Pulling for Sheen B, Joe, John, Tracey, Siobhaun, John, Zoe ,Julie & Andy with Jim Coaching. 
Sheen B then pulled Sheen A, with Sheen B narrowly beating Sheen A. Pulling for Sheen A. Di, Ralph, Des, Dawn, Andy, Lucinda & Gemma, coached by Duncan.
The Final was between Sheen B & Ayrshire, this was a close final with both sides attacking, with Ayrshire having a more balanced side, they took both ends, both teams made this a good final to watch.
On the Sunday, we pulled in the 520 kilos Ladies competition against Ayrshire.Who last year helped us with our training in the build up to the World games, aswell as Heather & Elaine pulling with us. This was to be the best of 5 ends. We had an excellent start, we had a good drop pushing constant pressure at Ayrshire,we kept a good height staying on our legs, we were well aware that they are a very tough team to beat, so we had to stay focused,as they tried to start to slow push, we settled for a moment, then with a big left we finished off the first end in victory. Our last competitive pull was back on November 22nd & then restricted to only 2 training sessions since then & after a big night out, our fortunes were about to change. 
On the second end, we had a big drop pushing hard with Ayrshire defending hard, finally they stopped us, taking us down to the mat, getting up was proving difficult & the judge gave us 2 quick caution, as we got up, both teams went down & the judge felt he needed to blow us out. The lack of training & night out had taken its toll & we had nothing left in our legs to give, with Ayrshire taking the next 2 ends giving them a 3-1 win.It was good to be able to finish off our indoor season, with a competition, it was great to see Di back pulling, who was unable to pull at our Nationals & for Gemma to make it (finally!). Ayrshire, who may be off to Italy for the World Indoor Championships, we would like to wish them all the best at the World Indoor Championships. 
We had a good long break til the start of the 4x4 open competition, which gave us time to recover from everything. The first pull was between Sheen A & B, with both teams teams doing everything to win after 2 good ends it was the A side that won both ends, Then Sheen B came up against BRC, taking control of this pull, working well together & took both ends for a fine victory. Last for Sheen B they pulled Ayrshire. After having a good drop taking rope they defended well pushed hard at them again butagainst a strong Ayrshire side, Ayrshire started to find their rhythm, Sheen B made them work hard to take any rope but Ayrshire took both ends. Sheen B came 3rd in the group & waited to find out their opposition for the semi-finals.
Sheen A, pulled a tacticle 2 ends against Ayrshire, after taking the rope from the drop, they defended making Ayrshire push hard & for every inch of rope til they took Sheen A over the line. On the second end, after a good drop Sheen A stay in control pushing well against Ayrshire to level the pull. Last up was BRC, dropping fast Sheen A took control of this pull not allowing BRC anytime to settle to defend & Sheen A went on to win both ends. Sheen A came joint top with Ayrshire but being lighter came top of group & were drawn against Sheen B in the semi finals.
In the semi finals, after couple of tight ends, its was Sheen A who went into the Final & Sheen B would pull for Bronze medal against BRC. The Bronze pull of was a close encounter with both teams battling it out, after some good defending Sheen B, took control using their power to work hard pushing BRC over the line. On the second end the determination from Sheen B from the drop gave BRC not much hope, as Sheen took rope BRC hit the mat , but Sheen carried their rope to finish off BRC & won the Bronze medal. Sheen B team: Ralph, Di, John, Lucinda, Des, Andy, Zoe, Gemma & coached by Jim. 
In the Final, this was a close run pull, with Ayrshire the currant UK open Champions, they had to defend well as Sheen A took the early advantage , then defended bouncing out the lifts from Ayrshire then a good left from Sheen A started them on their way back having to push hard not to allow Ayrshire the chance to stop them as Sheen A took the first end. On the second end, after a good drop taking rope then defending not to let Ayrshire start to get in to their rhythm, Sheen A pushed on with constant pressure Ayrshire had no answer & Sheen A took the end to take the Gold medal. Sheen A team: Joe, John, Tracey, Siobhaun, Paul, Dawn, Julie, Andy & were coached by Duncan. Well done to both teams, this was the first time we've had entered a 4x4 & it proved to be a good competition allowing us some extra pulling, as there is not much competition for the Ladies to pull in at Indoor. 
This week we entered the 580 Kilos, we had some excellent pulls in this weight, taking into consideration how light we were against mens team, this gave us some good training. Later we pulled Leek Ladies for 2 ends, again pulling them 2 weights heavier than our side weighed, we made a good effort to get closer to their weight, we borrowed a man, which meant we had to drop a girl off & to change our team round to accommodate getting up to their heavier weight, this wasn't ideal for us but we wanted to continue to have a Ladies competition. To avoid ourselves from having a mauling with drop in & defended making Leek work hard, trying to push against them for the 2 ends, we tried to make it a 3 ender but weight was against us, it was all good training for us. 
This week had 8 girls available, we pulled during the mens catchweight. With both teams weighed & stamped in at 520 kilos, so we thought. We started off missing the drop, giving Leek the chance to attack, we regained our positions to defend their strong lifts, we stayed strong & were wearing down Leek, at the right time, we started to build up pressure & pushed hard to take Leek back over the line. Despite Leek being weighed in well over the 520 kilos, this was a hard end to win but at a cost as in this pull Charlotte damaged her knee but continued for the next end.
On the second end we had a far better drop taking Leek well on steady pressure & with inches to go, Charlotte had a come off the rope, as her knee was so painful, she was unable to carry on so we had to walk it in to avoid anymore injuries to our team. After a rest we continued with the Ladies competition. We decided to pull with our 7 girls. Still lighter than Leek, we had a good controlled rope, keeping the presssure on them & took both ends. With Leek not wanting to pull any more than 2 ends.
We asked Sheen mens team to put some lads on to give us more time on the rope, which they sportingly did, we had 5 good ends with them giving us time to build on our team work, which we thank them for their support. Just a couple more weeks to go & it will all be over for another season.
This week gave us some good training against a much heavier Leek team.With Leek having 6 girls available & we had 7 girls, they borrowed a man to make it 7 a side but this made them 58 kilos heavier. This was to make it a difficult day pulling a much heavier team, but its all training. We had to stay very low to slow Leek down, we started to wear down their pushing & finally stopping them, we defended well but we to low to be able to start pushing against them. We used these pulls to our advantage to give our 3 new girls, Siobhaun, Charlotte & Zoe the chance to learn to defend, stay low & stay on our legs.
This week Lucinda made her first guest appearance since the World Games. A good competition was had by all, its was all good training but next week hopefully we will be nearer the same weight which should make it good a good competition for both sides.
This week we pulled 7 a side against Leek Ladies. We weighed in 30 kilos lighter than Leek. We had 2 changes from last week with Siobhaun pulling in her first competition & Julie pulling her first competition since the World Games aswell. Despite the lack of emthusiasum by an official, to pull the Ladies weights earlier with the Catchweight & the 600 kilos,so we had more pulling, we just pulled within the mens 600 kilos.
On our first pull we did not get the drop, giving Leek the advantage to take some rope. Once we got settled, we had to defended Leek`s pushes, we waited, then we made our move to put pressure on Leek & started to take rope , we stayed well on our legs & took the first end. We had a good drop on the second end, we stayed on an angle, we were able to stay down & push constant pressure to take the second end. We continued our good work throughout this weight & remained unbeaten in the 10 ends pullled. 
With only 4 trianing sessions, so far this season, we have competed well, working hard for each win. With Siobhaun (pictured) & the rest of the squad is now strating to gell together.
We attended our first Indoor competition this season at Cradley Heath. We again have made some good additions to our squad. For the first time for many years there is another Ladies team to pull, Leek Ladies, who like ourselves have a squad of new & experienced pullers. We went to this competition with only 6 pullers & Leek sportingly allowed us to borrow one of their team to make it 7 a side. Both sides weighed in with only 3 kilos difference. Our first pull was after the 620 kilos, we agreed to pull 6 times, this gave the new girls a chance of some live pulling, to teach them on positioning & tactics, they need to learn in a live pull. We had to shuffle our team round which meant Tracey & Dawn pulling in different positions on the rope. 
With Zoe & Charlotte(pictured) both pulling at their first competition for us, we had a good drop on the first end & started pushing with a bit of a wobble on half way back, we stopped to regain our rhythm & took the first end. With a quick chat, before we changed ends, we had a better second pull. Throughout the next 4 pulls with Zoe & Charlotte growing in confidence, we were able to go through these pulls without dropping an end.
We had a quick break & resumed our pulling in between the mens weight. Leek swapped over the borrowed pullers, giving us Helen in place of Tara. The first pull was our best pull of the day, with being lighter, we were made to stay down & push hard through our legs we took control from the drop, but with Leek pulling hard against us, we kept our positions well & maintained this till we crossed the line. The second end was a different story, we worked hard to win the first end it took a lot out of our legs & as we started to take the second end Leek started pushing harder & we had no answer, we tried to stop them locking our legs but lost the end. With a short rest we were back on again for our last 2 pulls, we had recovered enough to take both ends.
It was a good competition for us being able to pull against a good tight team, giving Charlotte & Zoe(pictured) their first taste of an Indoor competition & to get back on the mat for the rest of the team, its been a while since our bronze medal winning pull against Japan. Next week it's back to Smethwick.
The Squad on our last training day.
We had another successful training session in Scotland. With the sunshining it was a shame to stay indoors. We filled the day with some team work & some live pulling, thanks to the Scottish lads & girls for giving up their time to help us with our training not only this weekend but for our last visit to.With the time ticking down to days rather than months, before we go, the exceitments building to what hopefully will be a memorable World Games. 
In our build up to the World Games, we have been attending spinning classes for the past eight weeks at The Training Exchange in Stoke. Our session were taken by Abi (dont let that smile deceive you) who has put us through some extreme classes to help building up more power in our legs! All Abi`s hard sessions, which are not for the faint hearted, have paid dividends for our training, with stronger & more powerful legs & the fitness that it brings, we have been able to push up more weight & stay lower on the rope. We would like to thank Abi for the specially arranging the classes for us & to Suzanne & all her staff at the Training Exchange.
There was 3 countries entered the 520 kilos. Our first pull was against Northern Ireland. With a change at weigh in, this gave Louise a chance for some live pulling.We had a shaky start with a judging error but we made a very good recovery to take back the rope we lost, with some constant pushing we drove hard to take the first end. We had a better drop on the second end keeping a good height on the rope allowing us to use our legs to maintain the pressure on N. Ireland to take the second end.
Our second pull was against Scotland, the team we beat to quailify for the World Games. They were missing a couple of their team but still always a good team to pull. Their low style of pulling suited us, so we were able to stay with them using the power in our legs to take control of the pull, always pushing hard to keep them under pressure and we took both ends. We competed again against both Countries with out losing an end and would pull Northern Ireland in the Final.
We stayed focused on the drop, we took the advantage from our excellent drop, to keep the momentum going with constant pressure against N.Ireland, they had no response to our pressure & we took the first end. We dropped in the second end a bit higher and they took that advantage but we regrouped to stopped them & started to take back the rope we lost, with the N.Ireland team starting to fade they took the rope down to the mat, we came up strong & took them back then they came up higher to drop us to the mat but we hit the mat but our momentum took us back and as we came up we took them over the line to win the 520 Gold medal.
On the Saturday There was no Ladies Competition. So we entered the 580 mixed weight. We competed very well despite being only 522 kilos. We made every side work hard to rope from us. We had an excellent pull against Leo`s, we had a excellent drop staying at a good height to keep them under pressure, we pushed hard keeping tight with every push, they found this hard to combat & were soon tiring, they were up & down taking us to the mat, with inches to go the judge gave a no pull. We knew our fitness was a big advantage in these sort of pulls, so we agian dropped in pushed hard and finally took a very important first end. They made a sub for the 3rd end, but we knew that if we continued to work hard not letting them push against us, we would be hard to stop. We took the next end with 
We knew our fitness was a big advantage in these sort of pulls, so we again dropped in,pushed hard and finally took the first end. They made a sub for the next end, giving them a chance to recover, but we knew, we would have to drop in hard keep the pressure on them, we took control of this pull to win 2-0. This weight gave our side a good chance for live pulling, which will be our last until July. We would like to thank all those teams, that had great things to say about our pulling style & our fitness. 
Pulling against the mens teams, it is very difficult to try and find a balance to give us a tight rope to pull on. Despite their best efforts and lots of swopping and changing of men bewteen ends to try and balance the teams, we found it hard going. At least the half hour of running and exericses before hand helped us to try and meet our weight targets. Tomorrow nights training should be good, as todays pulling didn't take a lot out of us!
On 17th January was our first indoor competition since the National Championships, As we continue in our build up to the World Games in July. With a couple of weeks off, we have been back training for 2 weeeks & this gave us an excellent chance to have some live pulling against Ladies & mens teams. There was a group of 7 teams,we pulled against 5 mens teams, 5th Platoon, 6th Platoon,7th Platoon & Seme and Seme ladies team. It was a catchweight competition,we weighed under 520 kilos. 
We were very under estimated by the Platoon teams & gave them all a shock, as we ploughed through each side they put out,But as the day went on these sides started to find out what to do and all improved. We pulled against Seme Ladies 7 a side as we borrowed Louise,we pushed hard to win both ends to come 2nd in the group only losing to Seme mens who were more than 680 kilos.
After an hours break we started the 2nd Catchweight competition of the day. Well it seemed that we were the team everyone wanted to beat in the 2nd Catchweight competition. We started off against the Seme Ladies,we pulled with 7 & they pulled with 8, this gave us a tighter rope to pull against, we came through some tougher pulling to take 2nd place, we had a couple of crowd pleasing 3 enders which we won & again only losing to Seme. It was a good day for all who took part, we would like to thank Lynsey for coming with us & for Louise for pulling with us and to Damo for putting on the competition. After we had a presentation made to us, we started the 3 hour drive back!
Our first weight of the day was the 560, with 3 teams entered 11 reg & Bordon seme. We pulled 11 reg first, they are the Army Champions, we had not pulled them before today. We had to be focused from the start, we dropped in hard & fast, & stayed low enough for them to have no chance to stop us & powered them out both ends to win 2-0. Next we had Bordon, they have become stronger & tighter side to pull in the past weeks.again we had a good drop pushing constantly keeping them under pressure & took both ends & remain National Champions.
There were the same teams in this weight. We made 1 change from the 560 with Steph in for Debbie.We pulled Bordon first, we dropped in hard and pushed at them, they were not able to stop us, and we went on to a 2-0 victory with them having one eye on pulling 11 reg next. 11 reg was our last pull.With us 2 ends away from another Gold medal, we attacked the drop with constsnt hard pushes, we controlled the pull with them going low to stop us we settled then started to push them over the line.
The 2nd end we pushed hard from the drop then defended what we had taken, with them working hard to move us we stayed strong on our legs bouncing out each lift & then started to take what rope they gave us staying in total control we went on to take the 2nd end, taking the Gold Medal in the 520 for the 6th year in a row.
Our first weight was against Army Ladies 560 kilos, we pulled with our 7 girls weighing at 470 kilos. We pulled this best of 5 in between the cwt pulls. Again this was a competative competition against the Army Ladies with them pulling with 9 girls. 
After a short rest we pulled in the 580 with the help of Lamby from Bosley. This was a excellent weight with Kilroe Lincoln Uppertown & Army men to pull. We first had a very tight pull against Kilroe Then we Lincoln. Then we pulled Uppertown this was a excellent pull with them starting with 8, we started to pushed against them taking the momentum from the drop, they started to start pushing against us we started going forward but we defended well stopping them the started pushing harder with them unable to contain our pushing we took the first end, they pulled the next 2 ends with 7 and took ends in this hard fought contest. Our last pull was with the Army Men pulling 8 men as this being their first competition this season, we won both ends in a controled pull.
Our last weight was the 560 with Army Ladies,starting with our new edition to our squad for the World games, Louise. Louise made an excellent start for such a new puller. The Army Ladies started with 10 then went to 9. Again an excellent competition for both sides with no training next week as we have a rest week, this would be our last pull before the Nationals next week. Well done to Army Ladies for gaining a Silver Medal at their Championships on Saturday.
This week we entered 580,520 & 560, this was the first time we had a Ladies competition. Army Ladies were competing in their first ever indoor competition. We first pulled the 520, we had 7 girls against 9 Army team with 3 men 6 ladies, we were 130 kilos light. This was a good weight for us pulling a heavier Ladies team & some good experience for Army Ladies also for us to pull on the new metal mat,which was an experience, that is if you could see the mat through the metal clips.We had some hard pulls with the Army Ladies which is what you want with the nationals, just round corner.
The next weight was 560, pulled during the mens 600, With Bosley borrowing Tracey & Rachel this ment no rest for them but they are fit.We had the same side in this weight, with the Army Ladies pulling with 8 people, we were only 73.2 kilos light but again we had an excellent chance to pull a tough Army Ladies side, with tirdness & sore toes taking its toll for the Army,our fitness was shining through, this was a great weight for us, we were able to do some tactical work on the rope. Hope the Army Ladies enjoyed their first competition.
Our last weight was the 580 with Raunds, Kilroe & Uppertown. Our first pull was against Uppertown,we always look forward to pulling them as its always a good battle but we pulled them on the new mat, so we slided forward trying to get some momentum but we had as no answer, desptie ripping the soles on a couple of shoes, we tried hard on the second end but to no avail. Next we pulled Raunds with their team full of their best pullers, beat us the first end, but sporting went with 6 men for the second end, which gave us the oppotunity to push against a tight team making us work hard, to take the next 2 ends, but to us its the pulling not the points that matter. Lastly we had Kilroe we were able to push hard to take them, as they started to push against us we tried to contain them but they took us over the line., Thanks to Kilroe for sportingly pulling with 7. Thanks to Dan & Ed (umm) from Bosley who pulled in this weight.
We entered the 580 & 600. First was the 580, we had 2 excellent pulls against both Kilroe & Uppertown, Both giving us two hard battles again, which is the best type of training we need,time on the rope,against tight teams who work hard defending while were working hard pushing against them. A big thanks to both Kilroe & Uppertown teams for their attitude towards our Ladies team, also thanks to Phil & Shaun from Norton for pulling in this weight for us.
There were two groups in the 600, thanks to Norton for the chance to have a pull & to Phil & Paul from Norton for pulling for us. 
The first weight was the 580 with 5 teams Kilroe Bosley, Uppertown & Lincoln. Uppertown were first, again we had an excellent pull with them, both ends were hard fought battles. We pulled Lincoln for the first time this season & we made a good account of ourselves taking both ends. Thanks to Dave from Bosley for pulling for us. And to all the teams for sportingly dropping a man, giving us excellent pulling.
Next was the 600 with 5 teams. Sheen, Bosley, Uppertown & Kilroe. Weighing in 65 kilos light and with the support of the other teams, we again had some excellent pulling. With another 3 ender against Sheen good tight ends with Kilroe & Uppertown & finishing off with a win against Bosley. Thanks to John from Sheen for pulling with us.
This week we entered 580, 600 & 620. The first weight was 580, with teams seeing the power we have pulling at 580, seems to have put teams off entering this weight this week. We had to wait for the 620 to unleash the power. With 3 girls missing, Woody from Bosley & Nigel from BAC,kindly accepted the oppotunity to pull for us. Weighing in just 40 kilos light in 620. We pulled Kilroe, Sheen & Bosley, we worked well from the drops & took Sheen to a 3 ender. With all teams in this weight helping us by pulling with 7, it was a good chance to be able to push on a tight rope. 
Our last weight was the 600.We pulled Sheen, Raunds & Kilroe. With Woody & John from Sheen, helping us in this weight, weighing light again, it was only Kilroe who sportingly took the challenge to pull us with 7 men, its was a close pull with both sides having to work hard to take rope, its was another good days pulling for us. Next week is back at Smethwick.
This was the second indoor competition. We competed in 3 weights 580, 600 & 640. We competed well in the 580 again Uppertown givivg us an excellent pull & we had an excellent 3 ender with Sheen. This is the kind of pulling we are looking for every week,making us work hard for every inch.
The 600 gave us another good training weight.With the crowd finding it hard to control their emotion, we carried on the good work taking ends off of teams. The 640 was a big ask to take anything out of any team but it was all good, training dropping in against big sides feeling what the World Games will all be all about. There's no place to hide, every move has to be tight, any moving in the height of the rope will send you crashing forward. In all it was a good day for us, again a big thanks to all the teams with there willingness to help us.
Our first end of the new indoor season, was pulling Uppertown in the 580. It was a group of 3 Bosley being the other team.We were able to give both teams a good pull in this weight, pulling against 8 men, both sides kept it tight, so we were able to push against them. 
Tracey (no.3) pulling in her first competiton,With Rach & Di. 
The second weight was the 600, which was agroup of 5, Sheen,Bosley,Uppertown & Kilroe. With the other teams pulling against us with 6 then 7 menthis gave us an excellent oppotunity to have some real live pulling.We pulled Kilroe first. On the first end they pulled with 6 with some new lads on the rope, the second end they pulled with 7, which was a good tight rope, we were able to get down to a good pushing height and won a very close second end. 
Next we had Sheen, who pulled with 6 men, we managed to win the pull, after 2 closely contested ends. Finally we had Uppertown, who again sportingly pulled with 7 men. Both ends were very close, however after a strong battle Uppertwon took both ends. Our thanks go to Tony Hadley for pulling with us in the 600 and to all the mens teams for dropping men to allow us to get some competitive live pulling, which is crucial for our preparation with our sights set on the World Games next year!
The world indoor championships seems so long ago. This season we have two new girls doing indoor for the first time, both of them have picked it up straight away, giving us a bigger & better squad for the forthcoming season. This week is the start of the indoor season at Cradley Heath nr Birmingham.
This is us on our way to winning the Bronze medal beating TTV De Groeve from Holland.This was a fantastic achivement for our club we had 4 new pullers in our team. On our way to winning the bronze medal we beat Badaiotz from Spain, Stans from Switzerland, teams from Lithuania, South Africa & East Kilbride from Scotland.
Representing England in the 520. This was a superb competition in which we came 4th. We beat the teams from Lithuania, Scotland, Holland & South Africa. We quilified to represent Great Britian in the World games to be held in Beijiing in 2009.