Spring has finally arrived after a prolonged winter and this hilly course, a little over 5 miles long, was run in warm, windy conditions.
First in for the club was Jay Jennions, who had a very strong race with 33.12, rocketing from her injury-hit start to the Border League season up to third place in the seniors. Linda Martin must be wondering if she even needs Achilles surgery at all now, as she was next in for the women’s team with a terrific 37.48. Val Blair seems to have put her own injury woes behind her as she completed the course in an outstanding 49.45 and the ever dependable Jane Evans, now second in the LV60 category, anchored the ladies in a brave 50.07.
The men’s team was down to five, with other members being unavailable due to injury, holiday or work, but everyone put in a tremendous performance. Nick Chadwick led the lads home with a brilliant 33.49 and 82nd overall and not far behind was Martin Witty, who had run 23 miles the day before and therefore expected little from his race, in a surprisingly fast 34.56. Chris Jones, who is predominantly a fell runner but is increasing his work on the road, continues to improve with an excellent 37.36. Peter Rooney, who has been struggling with a knee problem for some time now, had simply turned up to take one for the team, but he did extremely well with 39.04. John Ingram continues to prove himself a valuable new club member with a very good 40.13.