Training at TVH with our Coaches

Here is a list of some of our TVH coaches based at the Linford Christie Stadium. We have associated coaches further afield so feel free to message our Head of Coaching Gary Telfer if you cannot find what you need from this list. We are so grateful for their time and commitment.

We’d advise anyone considering joining to message the coach to let them know you are coming beforehand so we can ensure the group is running as usual and that athletes can have the best experience possible. You are welcome to show up to the track without emailing beforehand and of course we will all help you find a great place to start your TVH journey amongst the busy chaos of a track evening.  Feel free to try out several groups to find which you enjoy most but if you would like some guidance, again, Head of Coaching Gary Telfer is a great person to contact. 

Some of our coaching groups are very busy and it may not be possible to fit everyone in. If you would like to discuss before you join TVH or if you are already a member, please contact Gary Telfer on coaching@thamesvalleyharriers.com

Jump to the event group:

SPRINTS/HURDLES

Gary Telfer

Event group: Sprints/Hurdles

Specialty: 400 hurdles

Profile:

Head Coach, Thames Valley Harriers (past three years); former 400m hurdler and member of TVH’s current 4×400m club record team.

Gary Telfer is Head Coach at Thames Valley Harriers, a role he has held for the past three years. A former 400m hurdler and member of TVH’s current 4×400m club record quartet, Gary leads the club’s sprints and hurdles programme from 100m to 400m, including short and long hurdles. With 20+ years of coaching experience across junior and senior levels, he has guided GB athletes and supported athletes from other sports with performance sprint work. His coaching blends detail-driven mechanics, robust strength and plyometric foundations, and clear race modelling. Gary’s goal for TVH is simple: continue to support and grow the coaching team at “the Valley,” building an athlete-centred pathway and a collaborative, learning culture that develops coaches and athletes alike.

Group timings and locations: Tuesday and Thursday 6.30 to 8.30pm and Sunday 9.30am to 12.00pm, meeting by the start/finish line

Age range of group: 14 years old to masters

Contact: coaching@thamesvalleyharriers.com

Lumar Sylvester

Event group: Sprints

Specialty: 60/100/200/400

Profile: I am a Ex-National level athlete with 10+ years of coaching experience, 

Ranked top 5 in the country for the 200m in the u23 age group 

Travelled the world to train, compete and coach (America, Austria, Switzerland and Portugal)

Trained alongside some of the world’s best athletes including Olympic champion Allyson Felix, Christine Ohuruogu, Shawn Crawford, Dawn harper to name a few. 

Coached by Coach Callender also have worked closely with/coached by USA’s Coach Bob Kersee 

Philosophy: If you trust the process and give it your best effort you will be successful (Discipline is everything)

Group timings and locations: Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30-8pm, Sunday 11am to 1pm

Age range of group: 15 years upwards

Contact: lumarsyl@hotmail.com

Amber Simukonda

Event group: Sprints

Profile:

I joined TVH in 2007 and started helping out coaching the young athletes in 2011. I helped out with the ‘Athletics 365’ group and the Saturday morning ‘Kids on Track’ group. I now coach a young athletes sprints group focusing on athletes between the ages of 12-16

Group timings and locations: 11am on Saturdays 

Age range of group: 13-17 years

Contact: Please contact through Gary Telfer at coaching@thamesvalleyharriers.com or come to track on a Saturday morning and come chat face to face

ENDURANCE

Bob Empson

Event group: Endurance

Profile:

Running has always been my go-to activity to stay fit but I started to take a more structured approach in 2014 when I joined a club and started with a coach. I gained my Leadership in Running Fitness LiRF badge in 2019, the England Athletics Coach qualification in 2021 and the Event Group (Endurance) badge in early 2022. At another London club, having been the club’s Co-Captain and Chair, I was Coaching Manager responsible for development of coaching at the club and leading or supervising training programmes at track and for various squads (eg. 10k and Couch to 5k). I have coached athletes from complete beginners to do their first 5k through to marathoners and ultra-marathoners.

I’ll run and race any distance from a mile to marathon and 100 miles, but my current personal focus is on trail ultra-marathons. I have represented England at half marathon in its V60 Age Group Masters Team and have completed 18 marathons and over 300 parkruns (volunteering over 100 times).

Group timings and locations: Tuesday 7.15pm for those who are already comfortable with structured training on track and want a more performance-focused workout.  Wednesday 6.30pm is well suited to runners who are newer to structured sessions or to training on track. If you are not sure which to choose, Wednesday is a great place to start; or contact me or Rob Ferguson and we can suggest which might suit you best.  We meet at Linford Christie Stadium just to the right of the stadium as you look at the track. We start punctually with a group warm-up.

Age range of group: Adults

Contact: hello@runcoachbob.com

Rob Ferguson

Event group: Endurance

Profile:

I’ve been a member of TVH as an athlete since 2014 and started my involvement in coaching assisting JJ Quirk with the endurance group in 2024, leading sessions since the start of 2026. I started running as a way of keeping fit, then joined the club competing at distances from 5k up to Marathon and occasionally beyond on roads and trails.

I now coach adult athletes and run sessions with Bob Empson. I’m passionate about helping athletes achieve their goals and enjoy their training, whether that’s competing for track teams, racing cross country or road relays, chasing PBs, or simply staying fit – all within a welcoming and supportive environment.  I’m very happy to provide advice and support on training plans, race fuelling and how to approach the sessions. 

Group timings and locations: Tuesday 7.15pm for those who are already comfortable with structured training on track and want a more performance-focused workout.  Wednesday 6.30pm is well suited to runners who are newer to structured sessions or to training on track. If you are not sure which to choose, Wednesday is a great place to start; or contact me or Rob Ferguson and we can suggest which might suit you best.  We meet at Linford Christie Stadium just to the right of the stadium as you look at the track. We start punctually with a group warm-up.

Age range of group: Adults

Contact: ermferguson@pm.me

Dave Wilkinson

Event group: Middle distance

Profile:

I joined TVH in 1991 training in Ron Roddan’s quarter miler group competing in and subsequently managing the southern men’s league team. I started coaching a small 800m group whilst still competing in the mid-2000s. I took a break between 2010 and 2014 and restarted coaching a middle-distance group that has grown over the last decade. I now coach the group alongside Robert Datnow and we cater for events from 400m to 5,000m with a few athletes now doing 10k, half and full marathons. 

Group timings: Group with Robert Datnow. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm at Linford Christie Stadium (normally meet around finish line), Saturday mornings variable time and location 

Age range of group: 16+

Contact: davewilki@gmail.com 

Robert Datnow

Event group: Endurance

Profile:

TVH Trustee, Ex-Chair (2019-2023), Middle Distance Coach, Masters Athlete.

Level 3 Event Group Endurance Coach, working with Dave Wilkinson preparing athletes to improve competition performance in 800 metres, 1500 metres and above on the track, road racing, and cross country.

In our group, we combine specialised track work on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, with weekend hills, twice weekly plyometrics, strength and conditioning, and Sunday group long runs, adapting plans to suit individuals and their targets.

Robert is also an England Athletics Coach Development Tutor, teaching courses for individuals who wish to become coaches and coach assistants.

Robert also continues to compete internationally at distances between 800 and 1500 for the GB Masters Team.

Group timings and locations: Group with Dave Wilkinson. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm at Linford Christie Stadium (normally meet around finish line), Saturday mornings variable time and location

Age range of group: 16+

Contact: robertdatnow@btinternet.com

Chemsou Eddine Bourezama

Event group: Endurance

Profile: I have been passionate about sport since a young age. I first started with kickboxing before moving into athletics, where I competed as an 800m runner. Later, I expanded into modern pentathlon, taking on running, swimming, parkour, throwing, and shooting. These experiences gave me a broad athletic background and a love for pushing myself in different disciplines.

Currently, I am an athletics coach, helping others develop their skills and enjoy sports the same way I always have. and I’m deeply passionate about nutrition, fitness, and overall wellbeing. Beyond training, I enjoy travelling, exploring new foods and cultures, and I’m also a big Liverpool FC supporter and a fan of One Piece.

Group timings and locations: Group with Dave Wilkinson and Robert Datnow. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm at Linford Christie Stadium (normally meet around finish line), Saturday mornings variable time and location

Age range of group: 16+

Contact: chemseddine.bourezama@gmail.com

Manuel Da Silva

Event group: Endurance

Specialty: Junior 800/1500m

Profile: Manuel is passionate about everything athletics and TVH. He started coaching when he noted a gap in the junior middle distance set up. His success speaks for itself with his athletes, including his own son, gaining national titles and age group records. He does this with the strong emphasis on protecting young athletes by ensuring they don’t overtrain so they can fulfil their potential and compete as seniors for his National Athletics League team which he manages. He is head of competition at the club and loves to see his athletes enjoying competing. 

Group timings and locations: Tuesdays and Thursdays at Linford Christie Stadium 6.30-8pm, meet near the finish line, just outside the track. 

Age range of group:11-16years

Contact: da_silva_5000@hotmail.com

Roy Christie

Event group: Endurance

Specialty: Racewalk

Profile: I decided to walk as a means of gaining fitness a few years ago after I realised that my health was too low on my list of priorities. I was actively encouraged by my family and coach Gary to continue with the walking. So, you will now see a group of us walking around the track in lane 8 at least twice a week. We also spend a little bit if time doing a gentle circuit in the gym. The group is very relaxed and encouraging of each other. The only thing needed to take part is your ability to walk around the track at your own pace in suitable attire. 

Group timings and locations: We meet at 6:30pm on a Tuesday evening and on a Thursday evening at the Linford Christie Stadium. The sessions typically last for about 1 hour.

Age range of group: All ages!

Contact: roychristie12@gmail.com

JUMPS

Rez Cameron

Event group: Jumps

Specialty: Long/Triple Jump

Profile:

I am a former British Champion and international Triple Jumper.  I’ve set a world record, and I think I may still hold the Masters 50+ age group European Championship record.  I started coaching in 1984 (as a young man) I’ve coached groups from 8-year-old school children, to 70 year old Master athletes, and senior all the way up to Commonwealth Games gold medallists and Olympians.

I’m old school and had no problem competing in our National League team and dropping down to the Southern League and doing (almost) any event to gain the points. 100, 200, LJ, TJ, HJ PV, HT 4×100 and 4×400 and officiating

Group timings and locations: No formal group but happy to meet and discuss suitability. A lot of wisdom to share!

Age range of group: all ages

Contact: rez3j@hotmail.com

Sam Nash

Event group: Sprints/Long/Triple Jump

Profile: I have been Coaching for over 25 years. Age group from 11 upwards to Veterans. 

I am competing M50 Masters Athlete representing Thames Valley Harriers Club and representing the Masters GB & NI team in Europeans and World Masters Athletics. I Won a Bronze Medal in 2017 Long Jump and made the Final in 2018. I was part of the Winning team who won the 4 x 100m World masters relay in 2022.  

I don’t have a coaching philosophy. I just believe if you work hard you will get results not just on track but also in life. 

I mainly coach sprints but I can coach Long and Triple jump to a high standard. 

Group timings and locations: Tuesday 5pm -6.30pm

Age range of group: 11-17years

Contact: snash121@live.co.uk

Sharon Dooley

Event group: Junior Jumps/ Sprints

Profile:

Sharon coaches a 13year + group in sprints and jumps alongside Trevor Wade. The group focuses on the fundamental movements involved in sprinting and jumping. Sessions are geared to develop the athletes for speed, strength and plyometric ability (jumping). The group encompasses athletes completely new to movement/ athletics through to athletes competing at English Schools and Nationally within their age group. Athletes within the group learn about what is involved in training and how to train effectively.

Sharon maintains a good rapport with other coaches drawing on their skills & knowledge to enable athletes to progress and develop beyond club level.

Away from the Club Sharon is a Strength and Conditioning Coach, Yoga Teacher and Sports Massage Therapist. Sharon continues to compete herself in athletics as a Masters Athlete in Sprints and Long Jump both nationally and internationally.

Group timings and locations: Group with Trevor Wade. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm and Saturdays 10.00am to 12.30pm

Age range of group: 13-18

Contact: sharon.dooley@icloud.com

Trevor Wade

Event group: Junior Jumps/Sprints

Profile:

Trevor has been part of TVH since young, training with a large group of athletes, many of who competed for GB Internationally, his coach Ron Roddan instilled a high level of discipline in training to be your very best, something which Trevor looks for within the athletes he coaches.

Trevor has been coaching for many years. With a wealth of personal experience in training to compete in athletics, he has developed athlete’s speed, strength and mental resilience. Having been involved within the sport for so many years Trevor has a vast network of friends who also coach athletes from grass roots to elite level, being passionate about the sport, they discuss coaching and training methods and support each other in developing athletes and themselves as coaches.

Trevor focused on Long Jump and competed for GB at National and International Level, he continues to compete within his age group as a Masters Athlete.

Group timings and locations: Group with Sharon Dooley. Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm and Saturdays 10.00am to 12.30pm

Age range of group: 13-18

Contact: trevor.c.wade@btinternet.com

POLE VAULT

Paul Oppe

Event group: Pole Vault

Profile: I have been a member of TVH for 49 years as athlete, coach, team manager, Club Chair and Committee member. Member of winning Southern Cross- Country and 12 stage relay teams and 2.40 Marathoner. Initially TVH Middle distance coach, I have guided athletes to selection for GB European Marathon, World Half Marathon and England 10K teams. Since 2017 I have been coaching Pole Vault with the aim of coaching athletes to participate in TVH National Athletic League, Southern League and Young Athletes League.  As a coach I think of myself as a ‘Facilitator’ coach, taking a holistic approach to training, hence responsible for introducing Gym and physios to the Clubhouse.

Group timings: Mondays / Tuesdays and Thursdays 6.30pm to 8pm at Linford Christie Stadium (normally meet around pole vault or back straight of track). Please contact me to confirm days and times as these can alter in winter / summer seasons.

Age range of group: 15+

Contact: pauloppe@aol.com

THROWS

Livon Houslin

Event group: Throws

Specialty: javelin (shot)

Profile: A long time coach with over 40 years of experience, mainly coaching Javelin and more recently Shot, as much as I am a true Thames Valley man (up the Valley) I am willing to coach any one from any club from 8-80 years old.  Come and have a go because you never can tell!

Group timings and locations: Tuesday and Thursday 6.30-8.30pm and Sunday 9.30am-12.00pm

Age range of group: 8 years old onwards

Contact: lhouslin.310@harrowhigh.com

Samantha Brewer

Event group: Throws

Specialty: Javelin

Profile:

Sam has been a UKA accredited TVH Coach for over 25 years.

Updates technical knowledge through commitment to a world-class mentorship program managed by US Olympic Coach Dan Pfaff and by attending Javelin Seminars (most recent being the bi-annual World Javelin Conference held in Kuortane Finland in 2023)

Her athletes compete at County and National level.

Additional responsibilities include: Child Welfare, DBS and First Aid Officer. 

Group timings and locations: Linford Christie Stadium 6.30-8pm Tuesdays and Thursdays and 9am-11am Saturdays

Age range of group: 17y+

Contact: sam50brewer@gmail.com

YOUNG ATHLETES

John Husbands

Event group: Young Athletes

Specialty: Middle distance and Cross Country

Profile: I first qualified and started coaching at Linford Christie Stadium in 2011 during my time as the club chairman, initially coaching young athletes before moving on to the adult endurance group and then back to younger athletes middle distance group in 2020. My main aim with coaching young athletes is to help them find the events they like training for and competing in, improve their confidence and enjoy athletics. I also organise competitions for TVH,  Middlesex County Athletics Association and other organisations. I am an endurance official (cross country and road) during the winter season and a track judge and field judge during the summer season.  I joined TVH in 1989 and competed in road, cross country and track races for a few years.

Group timings and locations: Tuesdays at Linford Christie Stadium 6.00-7.30pm, meet near the finish line, just outside the track. 

Age range of group: 9-15years

Contact: husbandsj08@gmail.com

Julien Gandemer  

Event group: Juniors

Specialty: 100-600m

Profile: I still need to do coaching certs as right now I volunteer as a parent although I have been a disciple of Coach Gary & Livon for a few years now. My philosophy is winning starts with doing the seemingly unimportant things right and being consistent. I have two boys who train at the club and I myself also do some master events such as Javalin and shot. Besides that I do Brazilian Jujitzu along with the boys as well as a lot of running. 

Group timings and locations: 6:30- 7:15pm Tuesday at Linford Christie Stadium

Age range of group: 8-12 years old

Contact: gandemer.julien@gmail.com

Angelita Broadbelt- Blake

Event group: Sprint/Hurdles/Long Jump 

Profile: A former GB elite athlete, who brings world-class experience to athletics coaching. I am known for an assertive and professional approach to coaching. Whether working with aspiring juniors or seasoned competitors, my aim is to instill a high-performance mindset built on accountability, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. I am dedicated to athlete development, my sessions are athlete focused which emphasize technical precision and mental resilience.

Group timings and locations:

Monday/Tuesday/Thursday evenings 6pm – 7:30pm 

Saturday mornings – 11am – 12:30am

Tuesday/Thursday evenings 7pm – 8pm u13s

Age range of group: 8 years +

Contact: ikidsontrack@gmail.com

Olivia Mundabi 

Event group: Kids on Track

Specialty: Sprints

Profile: With over 12 years of experience as an athlete and more than 7 years as a coach, Olivia brings a meticulous approach and a sharp eye for detail to every session. She specialises in sprints and the development of young athletes, helping them build strong foundations and achieve their full potential.

Group timings and locations: Every Saturday at 9 am (8-10) and 10.15 am (11-14)

Age range of group: 11-14years

Contact: ikidsontrack@gmail.com