Books
William Cockerell
While better known on the local running scene as captain of rivals Belgrave Harriers, Will Cockerell is also a second claim member of Thames.
His recently published book has itself been a marathon in the making, its non-appearance before each London marathon becoming something of a joke. However, now that it has finally hit the shelves it has been worth the wait.
Written in a style that is very much Will's own, the book is a highly informative, entertaining and well researched journey through
the history of the classic distance. Drawing on diverse historical records and his own interviews with many major players
it is the story not only of the great races but of the characters that shaped them.
A review from David Powell of the Times can be found here.
The book can be purchased directly from the author at willcockerell@yahoo.co.uk and he is offering a generous 20% discount to Thames members.
John Bryant
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John Bryant is a former captain and long standing stalward of Thames. While continuing his distinguished Fleet Street career (he is currently editing the Telegraph) he has added a sideline as a sports historian and author. His book on the four-minute mile draws on the long history of the challenge before making use of the author's own friendships with the homegrown protagonists. Bannister and Chataway are Thames members, with the later a born again regular competitor in the saltire, as was the much-missed Chris Brasher. His authorised history of the London Marathon traces the roots of the event and fully explores the greatest race of them all. |
Chris Moon
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At the start of the 1999 Thames vs Ranelagh Mob Match, as the runners were called to the start, one man was heard to complain that he "hadn't put his leg on yet". No this wasn't a quirky expression handed down through Thames tradition, but the reality for member Chris Moon who lost his lower right leg during a 1995 mine clearing operation in Mozamique. As well as the mob match he has completed other notable events, such as numerous marathons and the Saharan epic Marathon des Sables. One Step Beyond is his remarkable story. |