Saturday, March 21, 2015
Berkeley 20/20 Fission Race
The first running of the 20 mile and 20k road race at Berkeley was a sell out. Nearly 200 runners arrived at Berkeley Power Station ready to tackle these challenging distances.
Rogueruns organised the event and were pleased by how well supported the event was. 153 runners completed the 20 mile race.
Race director Paul Dodd said “Many runners tackling spring marathons, such as London, look for a flat, 20 mile road race to do about a month before their big event. We timed the 20/20 Fission race to coincide with runners’ marathon training schedules. We had competitors traveling from as far as Birmingham to attend our event. The 20k race ran alongside the 20 miler for those not quite up to the challenge of 20 miles, but looking for a new distance.”
Wotton under Edge based company Mountain Kingdoms made home-made cakes for the event, which were free to the hungry runners at the finish. The company raised £200 for the cakes, which was all donated to Comic Relief.
Photos: The first V70, competitors from near and far and the Berkeley 20/20 trophy
Men's 20 mile results
|
1 |
Stephen O’Halloran |
Great Western Runners |
2:01:13 |
|
2 |
Matthew Hurford |
Les Croupiers |
2:05:22 |
|
3 |
Sean Taylor |
Pont-y-pwl Runners |
2:06:41 |
Women's 20 mile results
|
1 |
Cecellia Siruffo |
Guilford and Godalming |
2:13:02 |
|
2 |
Sarah Baxter |
Team Bath |
2:15:12 |
|
3 |
Gemma Hargreaves |
Almost Athletes |
2:18:27 |
Click here for full results
Men's 20k results
|
1 |
Christian Irwin |
|
1:21:31 |
|
2 |
Michael Grant |
Almost Athletes |
1:25.28 |
|
3 |
Hugh Burchard |
Bitton Road Runners |
1:27:31 |
Women's 20k results
|
1 |
Sophie Gilbert |
Chepstow Harriers |
1:40:29 |
|
2 |
Katie Warren |
Wootton Bassett Hounds |
1:56:29 |
|
3 |
Lauren Pennock |
New Marske Harriers |
1:58:13 |
Click here for full results
Lakeland Trails at Cartmel
Photos (l-r): Annie Conway, winner of the 18km race and Christina Wiejak, winner of the10km race, both set new course records © www.lakelandtrails.org
Glorious spring sunshine greeted over 1100 competitors for the Lakeland Trails series opener at Cartmel Racecourse.
Two local Lakeland girls stole the limelight, with Christina Wiejak, from Barrow & Furness, winning the morning’s 10km Cartmel Trail Run in a new course record of 43.04 in an impressive sixth place overall. In-form Annie Conway, from Ambleside AC, smashed the ladies course record in the afternoon’s 18km Cartmel Trail Race, knocking two minutes off Lizzie Adams’ previous mark to record 1.15.10. This placed Annie a staggering fifth overall - with only four (very good) men in front.
Winner of the men’s 18km Cartmel Trail Race was Christopher Holdsworth, Clayton Le Moors Harriers, in 1.10.16, with Ambleside AC’s Ben Abdelnoor runner up in 1.11.14 and Eden Runner’s Jonny Cox in third in 1.13.40
Ambleside AC’s Martin Cox, former world mountain running grand prix champion, won the men’s 10km Cartmel Trail Run in the morning in 37.46, from Henry Valentine in 38.43 and Paul Graham in 39.49
Dry weather leading up to the event meant the official course going was firm, and soft only in places. Every competitor was rewarded with an event finisher's T-shirt, along with a photo memento of themselves from out on the course.
Over 1100 competitors from all over the UK, along with overseas visitors from Germany, Holland, France, Belgium and Ireland took part in the event, providing a welcome boost to the regional economy at this quiet time of year.
Deco Delight Jazz Band played live throughout the day, and singer/songwriter Pete Lashley performed songs from his recent Lakeland Trails album before the prize giving, and even found the energy to run the 18km beforehand.
The event was supporting the local Allithwaite King George V Playing Fields Committee charity, with many competitors running for regional and national charities.
Event partners included sports brand ASICS, Cartmel Racecourse, Mountain Trauma Rescue Services, Bowland Communications, John Bagge Associates, James Kirby Photography, VO2 Max Timing, Trailrunning.co.uk, Trekandrun.com and VO2 Max Events
Photos (clockwise from left): Girls on the 10km Cartmel Trail Run,Charity Runner John Alexander from Kendal and Singer/songwriter Pete Lashley © www.lakelandtrails.org
The next event in the Lakeland Trails series is at Hawkshead on 18th April and ALL entry closes at midnight tonight (Monday 23rd March), and there are only 97 places left for the third event in the series at Staveley on 9th May.
Men's 18km results
|
1 |
Christopher Holdsworth |
Clayton Le Moors Harriers |
70:16 |
|
2 |
Ben Abdelnoor |
Ambleside AC |
71:14 |
|
3 |
Jonny Cox |
Eden Runners |
73:40 |
Women's 18km results
|
1 |
Annie Conwa |
Ambleside AC |
75.10 (course record) |
|
2 |
Lou Roberts |
Ambleside AC |
86.51 |
|
3 |
Abigail Tiplady |
|
89.39 |
Click here for full results in due course
Men's 10km results
|
1 |
Martin Cox |
Ambleside AC |
37.46 |
|
2 |
Henry Valentine |
|
38.43 |
|
3 |
Paul Graham |
|
39.49 |
Women's 10km results
|
1 |
Christina Wiejak |
Barrow in Furness |
43.04 (course record) |
|
2 |
Suzanne Toppin |
|
45.46 |
|
3 |
Helen Woodley |
|
46.52 |
Click here for full results in due course
Rushcliffe Resolution 5K
Over 135 people from across the East Midlands ran, jogged or walked to raise more than £4,000 for the Stroke Association, at the charity’s Resolution Run this weekend.
A sea of purple fundraisers took to Rushcliffe Country Park to complete a 5k course. The event was one of 20 Resolution Runs taking place across the UK and provided people with the perfect motivation to get in shape before the summer and support a vital cause.
Race warm up and start was under taken by Ben Bonser from Pure Gym, Basford, Nottingham.
At least half of strokes could be prevented if people made simple lifestyle changes, such as keeping blood pressure under control and exercising more.
Alexa Wigfield, Regional Fundraiser at the Stroke Association, said: “With around 152,000 strokes a year in the UK – that’s around one every three and a half minutes - it is vital that we have people like our Resolution Runners to raise funds and help us conquer stroke.
“We’re extremely grateful to everyone who took part – it was a fantastic turn out and a great day for everyone involved. The money raised will fund vital research and support, as well as help to prevent people from having a stroke.”
The Stroke Association is the UK’s leading stroke charity which campaigns to improve stroke care; supports people to make the best recovery they can; and funds ground-breaking research to change the lives of people affected by stroke. For more information about stroke, ring the Helpline on 0303 30 33 100 or visit www.stroke.org.uk.
Yeovil Montacute parkrun
Photos: Springing off at the start of the run, Stu Cobb and Paul Rose atop the Hill; runners of all ages complete the course
Saturday saw glorious sunshine on the first day of Spring out at Montacute House to greet the 157 runners, of whom only eight were first timers, and an excellent 53 new Personal Bests. In the run, Stu Cobb broke his duck, finishing first for the first time with a PB on his eighth appearance, crossing the line in 18m51, with Paul Rose of Maiden Newton Runners second in 18m57 – Paul was extolling his training regime of calf raises whilst cleaning your teeth!
Welsh tourist Eddie Hiscocks setting the tone for the Six Nations day ahead by finishing third in 19m04. There were three other PBs in the top ten, with James Angus finishing in fifth place and a time of 19m38, Jason Quarterman 8th in 21m06 and Fred Fox 10th in 21m16 – in a double celebration for the Fox household, Sue Fox also got a PB today, finishing in 27m33.
In the Ladies’ run, Holly Bigger took top spot for a second week running, finishing in 15th overall with a time of 22m28, holding off Olivia Hiscocks who was second lady (20th overall) over the line in 22m57 and Chrissy Smith was third lady with a time of 23m38. Lesley Nesbitt was back to take her usual place at the top of the age graded standings, 80.69% for her (new personal best) time of 25m07 (41st overall).
Last week there was a whole group getting PBs just under 30 minutes – it’s funny how it goes, as this week the group of personal bests were around 23 minutes, with second and third placed ladies Olivia and Chrissy surrounded by Adam Bevins, who finished 19th with a time of 22m56, Thomas Gosney (23m13), Jack Clotworthy (23m54) and Adam Beacham (23m55). No doubt they were all looking over their shoulder for Binoy Manimala – he’s just run a fourth PB in succession as he finished in 29m27!
This weekly run starts at 9am prompt – there were quite a few late starters this week, but in Tom Priest’s case this is believed to have been deliberate to try and have a race with his dad Ken – it was close but no cigar, with Ken finishing in 25m03 a massive … three places ahead of Tom, who must have started five minutes late!
Next week there will be a fight on to finish in 113th place – which will be the 10,000th run at Yeovil Montacute parkrun!
Men's results
|
1 |
Stu COBB |
|
18:51 |
|
2 |
Paul ROSE |
Maiden Newton Runners |
18:57 |
|
3 |
Eddie HISCOCKS |
Lliswerry Runners |
19:04 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Holly BIGGER |
Langport Runners |
22:28 |
|
2 |
Olivia HISCOCKS |
|
22:57 |
|
3 |
Chrissy SMITH |
|
23:38 |
Full results and a complete event history can be found on the Yeovil Montacute parkrun Results Page.
Sunday, March 22, 2015
Asda Foundation City of Lincoln 10K
The historic streets of Lincoln provided the perfect setting for a colourful carnival of running as thousands of people pulled on their trainers for the new-look Asda Foundation City of Lincoln 10K.
Crowds of enthusiastic spectators added to the spectacle as they cheered the participants making their way around the flat and attractive course, which took in some of Lincoln’s historic highlights including the cathedral and Roman walls.
First across the line was Tom Doe in a time of 31mins 05secs. Linton Taylor took second place in 31mins 18secs, with Shane Robinson third in 31mins 54secs.
The first woman home was Carla Stansfield in 36mins 13secs. Second place went to Katja Eravisto who finished in 37mins 19secs ahead of Laura Thomas who was third in 37mins 23secs.
Winner of the wheelchair race was Mark Conway who came home in 24mins 24secs.
But the big winners were the many good causes which received a huge cash boost from the event, one of the region’s biggest charity road races. It is estimated tens of thousands of pounds will be raised for the event’s partner charities alone.
It was also a memorable day for fantastic fundraising pensioner Gladys Tingle, who celebrated her 84th birthday by power walking around the 10K course to raise money for the Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance. It was the latest in a series of events she has undertaken since turning 70-years-old to raise money for the service.
Along with the Mayor of Lincoln, Councillor Brent Charlesworth, she was given the honour of helping to start the race and after crossing the finish line was presented with a well-deserved birthday cake.
Gladys, of Horncastle, whose grandson, Jason, also completed the run, said: “That was a very special way to spend my birthday.”
It was the 19th running of the event, which for the first time in its history was organised by Run For All, part of the legacy if the late Jane Tomlinson CBE, whose charity has raised over £7.5m for good causes.
The field included scores of runners who got together with friends to tackle the event’s Team Challenge – a race within a race with trophies for the winners.
The fun got underway on Saturday (March 21) when crowds turned out to cheer on youngsters taking part in the Arena Group Lincoln Mini and Junior Run, raising money for St Andrew’s Children’s Hospice. All the youngsters crossing the finish line received a goody bag, T-shirt and medal to go with their sense of achievement.
Runners and fundraisers can find their next challenge at www.runforall.com
Men's results
|
1 |
Tom Doe |
31:05 |
|
2 |
Linton Taylor |
31:18 |
|
3 |
Shane Robinson |
31:54 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Carla Stansfield |
36:13 |
|
2 |
Katja Eravisto |
37:19 |
|
3 |
Laura Thomas |
37:23 |
Click here for full results
Brooks Fleet Pre-London Half Marathon
Photos: The start and race winner Michael Kallenberg (RAF) © www.sussexsportphotography.com
The sun shone on the crowd of runners gathered in Reading Road North for the start of the 34th Fleet Half Marathon. This year’s Race was dedicated to the memory of Fleet and Crookham AC member, Steve Sear, who sadly passed away in May 2014, aged just 37, due to a rare heart condition. Local resident, Isobel Pooley, British Outdoor Record Holder & Commonwealth Silver Medallist - High Jump, sounded the hooter to set the race under way at 10.30am precisely and waved enthusiastically to encourage the tide of two and a half thousand athletes streaming happily past her lofty, raised platform.
Race Director, Penny Abbott, had eased her way through the crowds thronging Calthorpe Park to join Isobel at the Start; she was delighted by the spectacle of the well-organised race commencing after months of planning and preparation. Penny said, “Today was a fantastic day – there was a real buzz in the town. It was a first for us having a local GB athlete to start the event and Isobel continued to support us by cheering on the runners, mixing with our youngsters at the end and helping with the prize presentation.” The organising committee wish to thank the local companies who have sponsored the Race sponsors: Mackenzie Smith, Barons of Farnborough (BMW), The Park Club, Fleet, Alton Sports, Back to Action Sports Clinic (Hook) and, of course, Brooks, our main sponsor.
Around the streets of Fleet many local people came out to cheer the runners on and welcomed thousands more who were visiting to the town for the Race. Cafes, shops, pubs and other businesses did a roaring trade as they supplied these visitors; local residents had gladly made alternative plans for travel in the light of the highly-publicised road closures and Race marshals were able to assist motorists as they navigated their way around the massive charity event.
Local charity ‘Fleet & Church Crookham Community First Responders’ were the main local charity associated to the event whilst the ‘Matthew Elvidge Trust’ again supplied a massive team of runners raising money for their charity. The national charity supported is ‘Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research’ whose TV Times team provides many celebrity runners. The success of this race in raising hundreds of thousands of pounds over more than thirty years is truly remarkable.
The BROOKS Fleet Half Marathon is a Race ‘planned and organised by runners for runners’, which attracts a full complement of entrants from London, Bristol, Reading and other towns due to its outstanding atmosphere, excellent route and efficient organisation. Every year the organising committee review and seek to enhance the Race in the light of feedback. This year, water pouches were trialled and received with great acclaim by the runners – kinder for the environment, less spillage and far more effective.
Photos © www.sussexsportphotography.com
The mix of urban and country roads allows runners to be blasted by sound in the town and soothed by the peaceful byways of the countryside. One runner remarked ‘it allows you to get your head around the race and focus on your pace.’ Others loved the noise and energy of the crowds of supporters: ‘The marshals are all so cheerful and encouraging; they make everyone feel better!’ Indeed, there are over three hundred volunteers from Fleet and Crookham Athletic Club together with organisations such as the Scouts, the Guides, local schools and Fleet Lions supporting this local event.
There were 2444 finishers, with the last runner just over the three hour mark. Among them was Jacquie Barlow, who was completing the last of her one year challenge: to run a half marathon every month! The first runner home was Michael Kallenberg of the RAF in a time of 67 minutes and 49 seconds. His closest rival, Ady Whitwan from the Army, finished three minutes later in 1.10.51. Third place went to James Bellward of the RAF in 1.11.22. Fourth was Peter LeGrice, the first Club runner, of Bristol and West AC in 1.11.56. Fifth place went to Charles Pennington of the Royal Navy in a time of 1.12.08.
First lady home was Stacey Ward of Herne Hill Harriers in a time of 1.15.42; her nearest rival was nearly five minutes behind – Samantha Amend of Belgrave Harriers in 1.20.13, also the first Vet35. Third place went to the RAF’s Abigail Bagshaw in 1.21.03. In fourth place was Ami Yetton of Plymouth Harriers in 1.22.18. Fifth place was achieved by Sarah Kinsella of The Stragglers in a time of 1.24.28.
Full results including the age category winners are all available to view at www.fleethalfmarathon.com and in a race supplement in The Fleet News this week.
Next year’s event will be the 35th Anniversary Race – quite an achievement when so many other races have either folded or been taken over by commercial operators. The ‘Fleet Half’ will always be a runners’ event arranged by volunteers. From success to success, using the positive feedback we receive from both participants and supporters, the Race Committee from Fleet and Crookham AC intend to carry the Race forward into the future. Race Director Penny Abbott said “It would be impossible to say thank you individually to everyone who has made today so special, there are so many people involved. But I have to in particular say a massive thank you to my team from Fleet & Crookham AC who put hours of their free time into this event. We must be doing something right, because people keep coming back year after year to run in our half marathon. And of course a big thank you goes to the runners – thank you for choosing Fleet, and making all our hard work worthwhile. See you again in 2016.”
Photos: The sun shone on the runners. Women's winner Stacey Ward (102) © www.sussexsportphotography.com
Men's results
|
1 |
Michael Kallenberg |
RAF |
1:07:49 |
|
2 |
Ady Whitwan |
Army |
1:10:51 |
|
3 |
James Bellward |
RAF |
1:11:23 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Stacey Ward |
Herne Hill Harriers |
1:15:44 |
|
2 |
Samantha Amend |
Belgrave Harriers |
1:20:15 |
|
3 |
Abigail Bagshaw |
RAF |
1:21:08 |
Click here for full results
Cleevewold
The Cleevewold race was a success with 139 runners finishing the challenging 14 ish mile course in perfect conditions.
The winner was Will Ferguson of CLC Striders in 1:38:19. In second place was James Smith of Black Pear Joggers in 1:40:07. Jon Newey of Mercia Fell Runners was third in 1:42:28
Liza Barry of CLC Striders was the first woman across the line in atime of 1:53:24. Lucy Richens of Westbury Harriers was second in 1:59:07 and Sarah Armstrong of amazing Feet third in 2:05:05.
Cheltenham Harriers were first men's team was and Evesham Vale took the honours for first Ladies team.
Men's results
|
1 |
Will Ferguson |
CLC Striders |
1:38:19 |
|
2 |
James Smith |
Black Pear Joggers |
1:40:07 |
|
3 |
Jon Newey |
Mercia Fell Runners |
1:42:28 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Liza Barry |
CLC Striders |
1:53:24 |
|
2 |
Lucy Richens |
Westbury Harriers |
1:59:07 |
|
3 |
Sarah Armstrong |
amazing Feet |
2:05:05 |
Click here for full results in due course
Great Horwood Mad March Hare 5k
The day for the Mad March Hare annual 5k run was glorious and sunny and Spring was in the air for the 139 runners taking part! The undulating course never gets any easier - how ever often you run it! There was a great atmosphere and some great times. This event is the School's biggest fundraiser so thanks to all that took part and contributed!
First man across the line was Trevor Poole, in a time of 18.34 and first woman was Tanya Taylor in 20.12.
First male U16 was Matthew Rizzo-Naudi in 20.53 and Anna Radford was first female U16 in 22.22.
George Landymore was first male U12 in 21.25 and Rhianne Rush was the first female U12 in 21.29.
Men's results
|
1 |
TREVOR POOLE |
18.34 |
|
2 |
ROBBY TAYLOR |
19.49 |
|
3 |
MATTHEW RIZZO-NAUDI |
20.53 |
Women's results
|
1 |
TANYA TAYLOR |
20.12 |
|
2 |
RHIANNE RUSH |
21.29 |
|
3 |
ANNA RADFORD |
22.22 |
Click here for full results
Hastings Half Marathon
Photos: The 31st Hastings Half Marathon © www.sussexsportphotography.com
On a clear cool day at famous Hastings, 3000 runners took part in this popular annual event. Hastings may not be the biggest, but it certainly offers magnificient spectator support and much entertaiment on route and it is still The One to run.
Top Athletles taking part mixed with club runners and charity/fun runners, to make the event something for everyone.
The Mens race was won comfortably by Sammy Nyokaye(Kenya) in 1,05.27, with second place four minutes behind with late entry Tom Payn (London) in 1.09.32. In third place was Jeff Pyrah (Ryhe Runners) in 1.11.18
James Bennett (Strriders of Croydon) was in fourth with 1.11.55 and 2006 winner Michael Coleman (South Kent Harriers) was fifth in 1.12.30
The first female was Mercyline Ondieki (Kenya) in 1.21.36. In second and third place were Maria Heslop (Paddoxck Wood AC), 1.22.45, and Alice Heather-Hayes (Tunbridge Wells Harriers), 1.23.24, respectively
Fourth was Yvette Grice(Bodyworks XTC) 1.23.37 and Sarah Gruber (Invicta East Kent) was fifth in 1.25.19
#
Photos: The 31st Hastings Half Marathon © www.sussexsportphotography.com
But the best winner of all will be the thnousands of pounds raised by many charities represented at the event.
Winner of the Min Run were Arron Judah for the boys and Olivia White for the girls.
The event, organised by The Lions Club of Hastings for the community, is as popular as ever and the famous 'Hastings Brass' awarded to all finishers is a truly unique memento.
Runners were able to see immediately after they had finished, a live viewing of their results, and were also Texted with their finishing positions and times. An official prize giving evening will take place on Sunday 17th May.
The 2016 event will be onSunday 20th March 2016.
Photos: The 31st Hastings Half Marathon © www.sussexsportphotography.com
Men's results
|
1 |
Sammy Nyokaye |
Kenya |
1,05.27 |
|
2 |
Tom Payn |
London |
1.09.32 |
|
3 |
Jeff Pyrah |
Ryhe Runners |
1.11.18 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Mercyline Ondieki |
Kenya |
1.21.36 |
|
2 |
Maria Heslop |
Paddock Wood AC |
1.22.45 |
|
3 |
Alice Heather-Hayes |
Tunbridge Wells Harriers |
1.23.24 |
Click here for full results
Stowmarket Half Marathon
On what was a perfect day for running, 402 runners amassed at Tomlinson Groundcare, Buxhall for the 2015 edition of the Stowmarket Half Marathon.
The event has been growing in popularity yearly & was completely sold out some time before the day of the race. Dry and occasional sunny spells with little wind……and the promise of cake after the race was enough to guarantee some fantastic racing with Odette Robson (Saint Edmund Pacers) taking the ladies prize with a blistering time of 1:20:54.
Robson was followed home by Rose Nicholson of Waveney Valley AC (1:24:35) and Marie Shirley of Colchester Harriers A (1:27:05). Jayne Williams, Isobel Renn & Dawn Davies took the Women’s team prize for Ipswich Jaffa RC.
The men’s race was just as riveting with only 20 seconds separating 1st & 2nd Place. Men’s winner with a time of 1:15:50 was Benjamin Turley of Ipswich JAFFA RC, quickly followed by Grant Harradence (1:16:10) and Colind Ridley of Saint Edmund Pacers (1:17:28). Adam Howlett, Joe Carr and Darren Sheppard put in great displays to take home the men’s team trophy for Framlingham Flyers.
Peter Downing, an ever-present at Stowmarket Strider Events, was racing as our only wheelchair participant and he got round the course in 1:45:13
The female age category winners were Dawn Davies (FV35), Jayne Williams (F40), Geraldine Clarke (F45), Haley Suttle (F50), Belinda Schofield (F55), Marion Walker (F60) and Carole Spong (F65). The triumphant men were Adam Howlett (m40), John Manlow (M45), Greg Davis (M50), Michael Marriot (M55), Ker Macrosson (M60) and Malcolm Savage (M65).
“We are really pleased with how the day went, we have had lots of lovely comments from runners which is a great thing to hear. A big thank you to Robert Tomlinson for providing such a lovely venue to stage the race from. We hope to see everyone back again next year!” Heidi Bingham, Race Director.
Men's results
|
1 |
Benjamin Turley |
Ipswich JAFFA RC |
1:15:50 |
|
2 |
Grant Harradence |
Unattached |
1:16:10 |
|
3 |
Colin Ridley |
Saint Edmund Pacers |
1:17:28 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Odette Robson |
Saint Edmund Pacers |
1:20:54 |
|
2 |
Rose Nicholson |
Waveney Valley AC |
1:24:35 |
|
3 |
Marie Shirley |
Colchester Harriers A |
1:27:05 |
Click here for full results
Vitality Reading Half Marathon
The sun was shining on 15,357 runners at the 2015 Vitality Reading Half Marathon on Sunday 22 March, and the new look race course did not disappoint. Pledged by the organisers to be flatter and faster than ever before, impressive finish times were logged across the 190-strong elite field. Amos Kiplagat was crowned winner of the men’s race in 63 minutes and 9 seconds with Lily Partridge finishing in top spot of the women’s race in 70 minutes and 31 seconds.
The men’s winning race time came in 90 seconds faster than the 2014 event, and the women’s nearly two minutes faster. Five of the seven fastest female times in the UK were recorded at the Madejski Stadium yesterday proudly demonstrating just how fast the new course is.
Winner of the men’s race Amos Kiplagat says: “The Vitality Reading Half Marathon is a great event and with the new course, it really was a brilliant race! The flat course set us up for a comfortable run and the cheering both on the course and in the Stadium was fantastic.”
Second in the men’s race was Paul Pollock crossing the line in 64 minutes and 5 seconds, closely followed by Ian Kimpton with 64 minutes and 30 seconds.
Commenting on her win, Lily Partridge says: “I can’t believe it! When I checked my watch at the ten mile marker I knew I was on for a massive personal best so I’m delighted to have gone sub 71 minutes. The weather today has been excellent and the crowd support has been great!” She was closely followed by Gladys Yator in 70 minutes and 44 seconds and Alyson Dixon in 3rd with a time of 71 minutes and 29 seconds.
Partridge knocked three minutes off of her PB race time, with only three British women running a faster race time in the last 5 years. Furthermore, five of the top six finishers race Personal Bests.
The Green Park start line was alive with energy and a rainbow of club and charity running vests. Sir John Madejski set the runners on their way through the streets of Reading. There was an incredible atmosphere across town with roaring spectators lining the streets for the runners. Thousands more packed into the Madejski Stadium treating every runner to a hero’s reception.
The event organiser expects to raise a record amount of money from this year’s event, coming in close to £1.5 million.
For further details on this year’s event visit www.readinghalfmarathon.com
Men's results
|
1 |
Amos Kiplagat |
Unattached |
01:03:09 |
|
2 |
Paul Pollock |
KENT |
01:04:05 |
|
3 |
Ian Kimpton |
LUTON |
01:04:31 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Lily Partridge |
ALDERSHOT FARNHAM & DISTRICT AC |
01:10:32 |
|
2 |
Gladys Yator |
Unattached |
01:10:46 |
|
3 |
Alyson Dixon |
SUNDERLAND STROLLERS |
01:11:30 |
Click here for full results
Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon
Photos: The start; first woman Perendis Lekapana and race winner Ben Siwa
Following three years of inclement weather, runners were greeted this year with clear skies, no wind and some early spring sunshine. This ever popular half marathon, had sold its 5300 available places by early in the New Year. While many ran for charity or to achieve a personal milestone, the entries at the sharp end were impressive.
Before the race, there was talk of course records possibly being broken. Whispers of elite athletes who wanted to race the Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon were being heard, particularly as race day drew closer. In the end, the men’s course record remained, still belonging to Isaac Macharia with a time of 61.52 in 2004. Rebecca Robinson of Kendal AC was third in 01:13:52. Fourth place went to International Elle Vernon and wife of Steve Vernon, himself an international Cross-Country runner.
It was left to a lady to grab the headlines. Perendis Lekapana of Kenya was the one to break the ladies course record winning the ladies race in a new record time of 71.24, beating the existing course record held by Michelle Ross-Cope of City of Stoke by 38 seconds. Michelle had to settle for second in a time of 72.02, and just outside her existing course record.
The overall race winner was Ben Siwa of Uganda in a time of 64.57. In previous years Ben has represented Uganda in the World Cross Country Championships. A couple of hundred metres behind and in second place was Tadele Geremew of Elswick Harriers, finishing in 65.23, but only by the slimmest of margins. In third place but also in 65.23 was Patrick Martin of Stockport. The two were neck and neck for the entire length of the finish straight, as the crowd roared the pair to the line.
With the better weather, the organisers had access to a full range of car parking facilities meaning that delays were significantly reduced. As always, the race committee is grateful to the public for their co-operation.
The Stroke Association were the designated charity for this year’s race with over 100 runners supporting the charity.
The organising committee is indebted to lead sponsor Waters, additionally the support provided by Running Bear and Running Imp.
As runners left for home, the dismantling of the course started. Another year completed! If you too want to be part of the Waters Wilmslow Half Marathon, 2016 entries will open late autumn.
Men's results
|
1 |
Ben Siwa |
Run Fast |
01:04:57 |
|
2 |
Tadele Geremew |
Elswick Harriers |
01:05:23 |
|
3 |
Patrick Martin |
Stockport Harriers & AC |
01:05:24 |
Women's results
|
1 |
Perendis Lekapana |
Run Fast |
01:11:41 |
|
2 |
Michelle Ross-Cope |
City Of Stoke AC |
01:12:36 |
|
3 |
Rebecca Robinson |
Kendal |
01:13:52 |
Click here for full results
Wiltshire Scramble
Photos © www.charleswhittonphotography.com
Fantastic spring weather greeted competitors for Events Logic UK’s Wiltshire Scramble off road /cross country runs at Spirthill. First to kick off the events were some hardy cross country runners who lined up at the start in the great spring weather to take on the 12 mile circuit (3 laps).
This race happened to be Race 8 of the Wiltshire off road race league (which includes all the affiliated Wiltshire running clubs ). The challenging cross country route looped around Spirthill Trail, taking runners through both woodland and farmland; presenting competitors with some steep inclines, water, mud and slippery slopes to manage.
First male across the finish line in the 12mile cross country run was Justin Ashby from Sidmouth running club who completed the course in 1hr 25min Second place male was Paul Gardiner from Chippenham Harriers in 1hr 26mins 8 seconds and Third place Justin Peters from Avon valley runners in 1hr 27mins 34 seconds.
Photos © www.charleswhittonphotography.com
First female finisher was Claire Francis from Chippenham Harriers in a time of 1hr 34 minutes 22 seconds. Second place female was Diane Hier from Avon valley runners in 1hr 40 minutes 13 seconds and third place was taken by Sue Stewart Tanner from Chippenham harriers in 1hr 46 minutes 31 seconds.
Next up was the 13 km (2 laps) cross country run on the same circuit. First male across the line was Paul Sidaway from Eastleigh RC in a blistering time of 1hr 1min 6 seconds. Second male was Craig Watt and third was Steve Skinner. The first female finisher was Valerie Vince who completed the trail in a time of 1hr 22mins 24 seconds. Second place was Katy Shoesmith ,and Third place was Victoria Penman from Frome running club
Third race of the day was on the same course, over 6.5km. First overall and female finisher was Diana Dee from Highworth RC in a time of 31mins 47 seconds and first male was Sam Mott.
Photos © www.charleswhittonphotography.com
There also was a 1.5km fun run for the children, which was also part of the newly formed Wiltshire Athletics off road race league. Wiltshire Scramble is a great introduction to cross country running, and more importantly getting them active. Some very tough young competitors braved the tough off road 1.5km run. Max Davis from Avon Valley runners whipped round the course in a time of 4mins 01 seconds to beat all the other fun runners. First Girl to complete course was India Ibbotson from Bath AC in 4mins 35seconds.
One of the Events Logic UK team said that, ‘Today all our competitors were winners. There were some incredible performances in very tough conditions. We are hopeful of good spring weather for the next series of competitions The Oldbury white horse Triathlon weekend, held at Calne leisure centre, Events logic run a childrens Triathlon for all ages on Saturday 2nd May, on this day we also include a children’s fun run .Sunday May 3, Events logic hold an Adults Sprint Triathlon for all abilities .
For more information and booking in, visit www.eventslogicuk.com.
Photos © www.charleswhittonphotography.com
Men's 12 mile results
|
1 |
Justin Ashby |
Sidmouth Running Club |
01:25:00 |
|
2 |
Paul Gardiner |
Chippenham Harriers |
01:26:08 |
|
3 |
Justin Peters |
Avon Valley Runners |
01:27:34 |
Women's 12 mile results
|
1 |
Claire Francis |
Chippenham Harriers |
01:34:22 |
|
2 |
Diane Hier |
Avon Valley Runners |
01:40:13 |
|
3 |
Sue Stewart Tanner |
Chippenham Harriers |
01:46:31 |
Men's 13km results
|
1 |
Paul Sidaway |
Eastleigh RC |
01:01:06 |
|
2 |
Craig Watt |
Unattached |
01:11:25 |
|
3 |
Steve Skinner |
Unattached |
01:17:58 |
Women's 13km results
|
1 |
Valerie Vince |
Unattached |
01:22:24 |
|
2 |
Katy Shoesmith |
Unattached |
01:23:28 |
|
3 |
Victoria Penman |
Frome |
01:25:36 |
Men's 6.5km results
|
1 |
Sam Mott |
Unattached |
00:36:42 |
|
2 |
Christopher Harrison |
Unattached |
00:41:02 |
|
3 |
Joe Mitchell Body |
Revolution |
00:51:37 |
Women's 6.5km results
|
1 |
Diana Dee (overall winner) |
Highworth RC |
00:31:47 |
|
2 |
Sue Davis |
Chippenham Harriers |
00:42:52 |
|
3 |
Sadie Ibbotson |
Chippenham Harriers |
00:44:58 |
Click here for full results
