2009 kicked off with a bang as 14 club members made the long, cold journey west for the fourth instalment of this season’s Border League. Eryri’s 10k course is not one for an easy introduction to the year or a PB, with almost three miles of mind-numbing, bone-chilling coast turning inland into long, steep hills. Nevertheless all club members gave a worthy showing
17-year-old Andy Edwards was first in for the club with an outstanding 38.39, showing he can do those hills. Fred Aird continued his fight back to form with 39.19, and Vince Edwards produced an excellent 41.55. Strong deliveries from Martin Witty (43.06), Mike O’Brien (44.24) and Nick Chadwick (44.56) then ensued, and Alan Jones completed the scoring with a very good 46.19. Peter Rooney managed a decent 48.48 and Phil Taylor did tremendously for a PB of 49.07- 49 minutes would have surely gone on an easier course. Kev Burns then broke the 50 minute barrier with a fine 49.49, and Sid Bailey anchored the men with a quality 50.25.
Lorna Royle led the female charge with a strong 50.20, while Leslie Ingram and Emily Davies worked together for extremely good times of 52.11 and 52.19 respectively. Everyone then scurried to get warm and head for a much deserved dinner in a local pub before making the long, cold journey back east.
Well done everyone and good luck to those who take part in the Four Villages Half Marathon later this month.