Popplewell Trophy presented to Tim Richardson, Reading AC

Tim Richardson receives the Popplewell Trophy from League Chairman Ken Littlejohns

On Saturday 13 October, at the first of this season's 2:09 Events Hampshire Cross-Country League fixtures, Tim Richardson was presented with the Popplewell Trophy. He is the second recipient of the trophy, to mark the contribution of Maureen and John Popplewell to the success of the league. Tim is a member of Reading AC and his nomination from Brian Bacon and Lee Richardson clearly states his passion and commitment to the club.

"Tim has been involved with cross-country in general with the club for almost 20 years. For the past 16 years he has been the female cross-country team manager for Reading AC and as well as the various championship races, under his management he has overseen a huge rise in performances in cross-country and in particular the Hampshire League.

"Tim has also been a key organiser for the home match Reading AC have hosted for the past 10+ years, from course marking, arranging first aid, refreshments, marshals and literally anything else that is involved in the organisation of a home cross-country fixture.

"Tim is one of the regular, familiar smiley faces seen at Hampshire League fixtures, often one of the first there and one of the last to leave. He is very modest in the work he does and the time he puts into cross-country and giving every bit of help he can to his athletes, in particular the youngsters. He doesn't seek any recognition and is a very enthusiastic but modest man, but his commitment and enthusiasm is so huge that we feel he is a very deserved and fitting nominee for this award."

It was decided to present the Popplewell Trophy to Tim at the fixture at Farley Mount in order that his athletes and friends could share his moment. This could well be the pattern in the future.