News

‘Hi all.

Race reporter reporting for duty! Here we go…

The 7th race in the Sportlink Grand Prix took a not so unlucky 13 happy runners to Dereham for the 10 mile road race. Well supported by eight fellow runners and family, plus Harley for some woofs along the way.

Starting and finishing at Neatherd High School, the run takes you away from the town centre and out onto some beautiful back roads in the countryside. The heading out seems flat but as the last 2-3 miles approach there is definitely an uphill as well as some bigger hills thrown in on the loop round!

Was perfect running weather today as the sun only just made an appearance towards the end, was the right temperature with very little wind. A beautiful day for a run 😊

Thank you to all those to popped up around the course and those who waited at the finish line (Marie Pacey, Mark Riseborough, Hayley Eyre, Mrs. Senior, Sarah Raven, Pete Alder, Denise Leader, Kerrie Coslett & Harley). Seeing you all kept our spirits up as well as the great support (& cake) from the hosts,  Dereham Runners AC.

Fantastic performances today with seven PB’s and three podium spots, well done 👏’

Kirsty L

Official chip times:
David Coslett –  1:05:54
Shane Hunt – 1:12:08 – PB
Lorraine Hunt – 1:12:41 – PB – 3rd in age category
Cam Raven – 1:14:27 – PB
Gordana Hills – 1:16:01 – PB – 3rd in age category
Malcolm Senior – 1:21:13 – 3rd in age category
Gemma Pickering – 1:23:44 – PB
Bob Lyddon – 1:25:36 – PB
Rachel Dawson – 1:25:39
Andy Payne – 1:33:57
Kirsty Lack – 1:39:42
Vikki Powles – 1:40:13 – PB
Michelle Finnegan – 1:43:48 – PB

Group photos from Kerrie.

Aylsham 10k
‘A magnificent 7 RntS made their way to Aylsham this morning to take part in the 10k run.

After parking we made our way to the registration and collected our numbers which  was very straight forward as normal.

Waiting outside for the race briefing it was easy for the all the RntS to congregate ( well after a bit of vigorous waving for Malcolm to rejoin his wife).

This also gave us a chance to welcome Teresa Futter and wish her well with her first run for the club.

Once the briefing had taken place it was a short walk to the start,.

This was fairly congested but after about 250m downhill the route turned left and headed out on to country lanes. At this point there was a nice incline and we all started to have more space.

The course was a lollipop shape heading out for about 2k before running a loop,  then returning along the first 2k with a niggling uphill finish.

As indicated earlier these were all country lanes and closed to traffic.

The marshals as at most races were very supportive and gave plenty of encouragement.

A big well done to Teresa for her first club run, before hand she said she would love to get under 55. Good result.

Note for Alex make sure laces are tied tightly or get Cat to do it.

Still it let me get a head of him whist tying them back up on the side of the road.  Not sure if that was the 27 sec difference!’

Paul

Official Results:
Ant – 39.40
Cam – 46.53
Paul – 49.26
Alex – 49.53
Malcolm – 51.12
Will –  52.30
Teresa F – 54.30

Dukeries 30
‘On Saturday 6th May I completed Dukeries 30, a 30-mile trail race in Sherwood Forest and its surroundings. There was also an option for runners to take on Dukeries 40 and both races started at the same time with a total of 170 runners. The start itself was touching. Steve Shanks, who died soon after completing the 2023 London Marathon, had won Dukeries 40 last year and was known to many of the runners in these events so we were asked by the race director to pay a tribute to Steve with a big applause before the race officially started. It was a nice thought.

I like to discover new places while doing races. In fact that’s usually how I select some of my races. I’d never been to Sherwood Forest before so decided Dukeries 30 would be a nice trail event to take part in. I was not wrong. The route was beautiful and passed through ancient woodland carpeted with of bluebells, an archaeological park with caves and a gorge (in Creswell Crags), farmland, rivers and tree-lined avenues.

As usual I used Tailwind as my main hydration during the race and made good use of the well-stocked aid stations. A few crisps, some salted peanuts, watermelon and banana were my choices at each checkpoint. I also consumed a few caffeine chews and gels.

I had decided to use a pacing strategy of 11-12 mins per mile throughout the race. I managed this to some extent though quite a few of the miles were slower. Somehow it all evened out and the speed I managed to make in the downhill sections of the race compensated for some of the slower miles. The last 3 miles had started to feel never ending but I had renewed energy when I had a surprise “cheering squad” (two friends) during this latter stage of the race! I picked up my pace knowing that I was now heading to the finish line and that my husband, Tim, and my two friends would be there to cheer. I finished in 06:44:11 . I was, and still am, well-chuffed with this result as it was well under the 7-hour target I had set myself.

It was a very well-organised race, with helpful and friendly volunteers. I would definitely consider doing this race again.’

Nur

Official Result:
6:44:11

Two Castles Narrative Marathon
‘On Sunday 7th May, Kerrie, Lucy and I took part in the Two Castles Narrative Marathon.  Starting and finishing in Belchamp St. Paul we followed a set of very vague instructions to get us around the course and to see the two castles!  Working well as a team to decipher if this truly was the correct hedge gap or path we had a great day together and kept each others spirits up.

The thought of going past an open pub was too much temptation to resist and we had a quick refreshment stop before heading into the next check point which was only just around the corner 🤣

One of the most challenging runs I had ever done; it’s very hard to get a good running momentum going when you’re trying to read instructions, look for markers points and where your feet are going all at the same time!  But also very rewarding and done with great company.

They had had a lot more rain than us which made the course (mostly fields) very sticky and squelchy.  I think we were wearing most of the field at one point! ‘

Kirsty L

This week’s report is from Catherine:

‘About 10 weeks ago, I was convinced to sign up and enter my first ever 10km run – the GEAR 10k. I was promised a relatively flat course and amazing support around the race, and it certainly did not disappoint!

18 RntS runners, including myself, descended on the Tuesday Market Place, as the sun was starting to appear. It was great to catch up with everyone, and get out all of my nerves early on. The atmosphere was fantastic as we moved to our start areas. I met up with Angie, who very kindly offered to run with me, as well as Shirley and Denise – it was lovely to see so many friendly faces around me.

We started off with lots of support and cheers, which continued for the majority of the course. It was a lovely course for a first timer, with plenty of flat areas and different areas to run through. I started off with a surge of adrenaline for the first kilometre or two, before Angie told me to steady my pace, as I still had a way to go! The support continued as we ran the course, with lots of cheers, cowbells and high fives en route.

The race was very well organised, with lots of marshals and clear directions throughout, as well as a much welcomed water station at the halfway mark. I really enjoyed running through the Walks and next to the river on the way back, as well as the final stretch along King Street! It was also lovely to see lots of familiar faces from the club, who had come out to support all of us.

Overall, I had such an amazing time – I think the majority of photos that I have seen of me show a huge smile on my face! Thank you to everyone who has supported me, but a huge thank you to Angie – couldn’t have done it without you! 🙂’

Official Results:
Jimmy – 37:53
Kyle – 39:24
Tara – 43:25
Rob – 45:17
Will – 50:33
Roland – 51:07
Seb – 55:39
Chris – 55:39
Vikki – 55:42
Marie – 57:02
Michelle – 58:26
Mark – 1:03:02
Jenny – 1:03:48
Shirley – 1:07:51
Denise – 1:13:59
Catherine – 1:14:26
Angie – 1:14:57
Gill – 1:18:23

Little Lifts

This week’s event report (based on the 10k) is by, me!

‘It was the inaugural event put on my Little Lifts and it had been two years in the making.  Little Lifts is a charity who are on a mission to provide free, thoughtfully curated Little Lifts gift Boxes to every breast cancer patient in the UK receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment.

To make this event even more impressive, there were actually 3 different distances; 10k, 10mi and 15.5mi.  The downside of this, is that it takes a lot of planning and signage.  More on this later.

The event took place at Barningham Hall in Matlaske.  Barningham Winter Estate is usually off limits to the public so it was by kind permission of the estate and local farm owners that the event could take place.

It was lovely to be back, as my grandparents actually lived in the park, so driving past their old house brought back lots of memories of childhood visits.

Anyway, on to the race.  Once registration was completed it was good to meet up with fellow RntS, some of us (sensible) doing the 10k, others doing the 10mi.  After the pre-race briefing there was a group warm-up to music with a couple of fitness instructors which was entertaining.

All three distances started at the same time, and then branched off in different directions at different points.  We were lucky to have helpful marshals (including Kirsty L and Lucy H from RntS and Phillippa from Holkham parkrun) and signs along the way.  As mentioned previously though, this can lead to issues and it would appear one of the locals wasn’t happy and vandalised some of the signs before the race started.  This meant that some 10 milers went in the wrong directions.  All lessons for next year.

For the 10k it was probably 10% (maybe a little more) road, but the rest was all field edge, farm track or country path.  It certainly was challenging , I think the other club members would agree!

Although a challenge, the scenery was lovely and the support well received (although the last kilometer over a very uneven meadow couldn’t end soon enough).  Each runner receiving a goody bag.

Would I do it again?  During the race, it was a no, but now, probably yes.  It was a lovely location, well organised and for a very worthwhile cause.

A special mention for Rob J who, just as we were discussing his predicted finishing time with Nita, the tannoy anouncer shouted that the first 10 mile runner was about to finish, we turned to look and Rob came hurtling in from another direction behind us to take second place in the 10 mile race.  Luckily we saw him just in time and cheered him home.’

Mark.

‘On Sunday 23rd April,  littlelifts trail runs took place at  Barningham Hall, starting and finishing in the grounds of this beautiful hall. There were options of 10 km, 10 miles and 15.5 miles. All the RNTS that took part over the distances of 10km (Nita, Mark, Vikki and Will) and 10 miles (Anna, Pete and myself) did so well. With Kirsty, Phillipa and Lucy volunteering the club was well represented.

The Weather was great for running and though there were some minor issues with directions, due to someone moving some signs on the cause, fun was had by all and the day was so enjoyable. It was hilly at times, but the views were incredible, running around area’s that are not usually accessible to the public. It was for a great cause, that brings a much needed bit of happiness when people need it the most!!!  the team that run the event were friendly, approachable and very supportive of all the runners today and deserved for the rain to stay away.

I for one will be looking out for it next year as it’s a great event. Plus the food, drink and goody bag were very good 😊’

Rob.

Official Results (10k):
Will – 57:43.6
Nita – 1:04:33.6
Vikki – 1:10:31.2
Mark – 1:10:37.6

Official Results (10mi):
Rob J – 1:22:42.6 – 2nd place
Anna – 1:39:54.3
Pete – 2:01:27.6

Blickling Trust 10
‘The Trust 10 Trail Runs are free 10K runs on National Trust properties. There are 10 Trust 10 sites spread across the UK. The National Trust advertises them as events which are all about enjoying the experience of running at the beautiful places The National Trust look after, whether you’re training for a challenge or looking for a sociable jog in the fresh air. The runs take place on the fourth Sunday of every month. If monitoring your running time is important to you, please remember to bring your own timing device.

As it was a Club Championship event I headed over to Blickling on April 23^rd.

The weather forecast for Sunday was high chance of rain in the morning so to my surprise it was dry when I set off for the 50-minute drive to Blickling and stayed dry until I was back home. It was very busy when I arrived and there were lots of casual walkers generally on the estate. They either have lots of National Trust members in that area or the public were prepared to pay the £5 parking fee to go onto the estate.

The start was tucked away at the entrance to the estate grounds, a simple tick in and tick out system (no names) to account for the runners going out and correct number coming back. The course is two laps of rolling countryside and woods, one small 3K and the larger 7K loop on the outside perimeter on the estate. Surface was mainly crushed sand dirt/chippings with a small section across a field adjacent to the lake. The bluebells were in full flower and created a wave of blue through the woods. I counted around 30 runners at the start which quickly split into two groups – very quick group and a slow running group. I was running on my own in the middle.

I have run the Park Run at Clumber Park seven times however I never went to their Trust 10 event I am more a road runner than trail runner. However, the Blickling Trust 10 would be a nice training run with fellow club members.’

Malcolm.

Kinder Downfall 2023

‘This is a Category BM race. The route does traverse high mountain terrain and weather conditions at this time of year may be bad. Weather is often unpredictable. Runners must have experience of this type of event. The route is mainly unmarked. Navigational skills are required, especially in mist, and prior knowledge an advantage (it’s all open to recceing in advance). The kit list is mandatory and if you don’t have the correct kit (including map and compass) please don’t try to take part’

https://www.t42.org.uk/hayfield/

‘Myself and Richard Monksmith entered this, again a late entry from me as it’s difficult to plan stuff around family activities.

I’ve ‘ran’ up and on Kinder plateau a few times so know what’s involved.  I’ve never managed to do this race, always missing it for some negligent reason.  Very basically, you start in Hayfield, up Snake Path then Williams Clough up Kinder Scout, along the plateau past Kinder Downfall and back to Hayfield.  10 miles with 600m of elevation.

The start was a bit chaotic as we started in Hayfield centre which is a village in the Peak District and it struggled with 300 runners along with a load of Kinder Swimmers who were trying to do the equivalent of Kinder Trespass from 91 years ago.

We headed up Snake Path which is wide but elbows were jostling for space.  I kept my ground and took it steady.  It levelled off and then headed down towards Kinder Reservoir and I tagged onto a runner on the lovely single track.  I could just about see the lead runners ahead and commented how they can be so far ahead already as we were moving at a fair pace.

Ascending Kinder was via William Clough which is a technical single track up the stream.  I tried to pace myself here as I’m not a strong climber, walking up the steep technical sections and running where I could.

Soon enough we got to the top of Kinder and then it’s about 5k along the plateau before we start descending.  It’s deceptively trickly to try and run along here and can be frustrating.  The optimum path isn’t always obvious and there are lot of boulders and obstacles to slow you down.

I got to CP2 and started descending the single track stone slabs which my Inov-8 trail Talons hated, it was pretty sketchy but then I made it to some stoney technical stuff where they were much happier.

Soon the final CP3 arrived and I headed down and was racing a MTBer who helped drag me along.  Through some fields where I managed to claim a couple of scalps who I felt were just out for a jog then I hit the final road section where unfortunately I lost a place.

I finished 50^th out of 313 in 1:25:48.  Looking at previous times I was hoping for sub 1:30 so I’m pleased with how I got on.

This is one of the classic races which attracts a strong field.  For £9, I love these races 😊’

Llangollen Fell Race 2023

‘Llangollen Fell race is a 17 mile fell and trail race that takes in around 3000ft of elevation, Taking in the beautiful views across Trevor Rocks, Eglwyseg Mountain, Rhuabon Mountain and then towards Cyrn Y Brain & Watkins Tower. Then down the Offas Dyke and along the beautiful Worlds End Trail back towards the finish..’

https://llangollenfellrace.co.uk/

‘Myself, Richard Monksmith and some other Spartans entered this race.  I entered it last minute as I wasn’t too bothered about doing it again and just happened to have a free Sunday so needed something to fill it up.

This time I was in the 09:00 (faster wave) rather than the 08:30 wave like last year.  Having done this race previously I knew the route, where to push and where to recover.

The race announcer did the briefing and we were off and about 400m later we hit the first climb up a steep but short road section.  I chose to walk it, even though we’d only done 400m and others chose to try and run it.  I didn’t see any point in trying to run it as I wouldn’t have been much faster than walking yet still had 17 miles to go so would save myself.

As soon as we got to the top of the road I started running and must have passed 15 people easily.  I then carried on running upto the open fells where a latched onto a small group.  As it’s a bit chaotic at the start it’s difficult to tell what position I was.

We then carried on the undulating open moors to a road crossing and then on a boggy moor section upto CP1 being half way.  There is a lovely downhill section here where you run down a stream and then onto some slabs to CP2 to head home.

I’d been on my own for a couple of miles now as the field had thinned out however I’d passed a lot of the 08:30 runners which was a good boost.  Another lad caught me as we hit the road section to head back on the last 5 mile down Offa’s Dyke.

As we hit Offa’s Dyke there is a small technical section where I passed him.  I continued to hurtle as fast as I could down Offa’s Dyke which is a narrow bit of single track cut into the mountainside.  It’s such good fun and makes the race worth it.

I managed to prevail over the lad who was chasing me and finish 5^th in 2:19:56 taking 5 minutes off last year’s effort.’

Alex M.

Boston Half Marathon

‘Very warm day so pleased of the 8:30am early start. Flat course in remote Lincolnshire countryside with very little crowd support.
Pete did the full marathon.’

Hayley

Official Result:
2:09:32

Newport Marathon

‘It all started with Kerrie buying me a Newport Marathon place for Christmas. I grew up near Newport so was looking forward to running this event.

We travelled to Wales on Saturday, a good journey and the sun was shining as we crossed the Severn Bridge.

An early start on Sunday morning to eat porridge and bananas before catching the bus to the start of the race. The weather was overcast and the atmosphere at the start was amazing and the pre-race excitement kicked in.

I got into my pen and said goodbye to Kerrie, Olivia, Ronnie & Denise. Whilst warming up I bumped into an old school friend, chatting to him eased the nerves and we started the race together.

It was a lovely course, although remote and quiet in places. The support along parts of the route was brilliant – cheering, clapping and bands playing all spurred me on. I knew Kerrie and family would be around mile 22 (as it was a tricky course to get around without a car), at this point I was getting tired and cramp was starting to kick in. But the crowd cheers kept me going.

My pace dropped as I struggled through the last 5 miles with cramping legs.  I crossed the bridge back over the River Usk after seeing my Sister and 1 mile to go. Finally, I could see the finish arch and pushed on through to the end.

A big relief to finish and so pleased with a pb official time of 03:22:04.

Thank you to everyone for your kind comments and support before and after the race.’

David C

Official Result:
3:22:04

Thanks to Liam for this week’s big run report:

On a warm and sunny Easter Sunday, Runners-next-the-Sea had a great turnout of 16 runners on the start line for the popular annual Active Fakenham 5km race.

The course was five laps of Fakenham Town Centre with closed roads for the running race and the later bike races.  A tricky course with runners starting near the cinema, turning right to benefit from the downhill of Bridge Street then sweeping around Oliver Way before negotiating the long drag up Whitehorse, which runners feel gets longer and steep each of the five laps.  At the tops of the hill runners had a brief respite as they turned right onto the cobbles of Norwich Street followed by runners weaving through town centre thronged with supporters cheering on their runners.

The first runners back for the Wells and Fakenham based club were Ant Cude in just over 19 minutes which was his best time this year, so a promising summer ahead.  Kyle Hasting (19.39) and Liam Dawson (20.15) followed him in for the club’s top three male runners.

First female was Tara Betts on 21.30 followed by Michelle Finnegan (29.35) and Vanessa Green (34.44) to make up the top three female runners.

These times were all the more impressive as most of the club had been in the town since early morning helping to set up the course.  The club was also delighted to have once again been asked to provide all the course marshals for the race.  Paul Woodhouse, who had organised the marshals said, ‘this is is a great local race which we are keen to support each year to showcase our sport and our club.  It was great to see so many runners come to Fakenham especially with the feedback on how friendly and supportive the marshals were’.

The full list of finishers for Runners-next-the-Sea were:

22 – Anthony Cude – 19:09.4
26 –  Kyle Hastings – 19:32.6
32 – Liam Dawson – 20:15.0
41 – Andrew Sutton – 21:16.9
42 – Tara Betts – 21:30.8
47 – Stuart Gollands – 22:08.9
48 – Darren Smith – 22:11.3
60 – Paul Woodhouse – 23:25.6
78 – William Ayley-Dodd – 24:31.1
90 – Roland Bewick – 26:03.3
98 – Chris Lubbock – 27:16.3
117 – Michelle Finnegan – 29:25.7 – PB
136 – Vanessa Green – 34:44.3
140 – Gillian Bewick – 37:54.0
144 – Laura Shaw – 38:38.6
145 – Jennifer Simmons-Brack – 40:07.2

There were 148 finishers.

And a slightly shorter report from Vanessa:

‘The bump was kicking away. It says what the heck was going on like being on a bouncy castle in here xx’

An amazing turn-out of 46 runners for the first 2 mile handicap of the year.  Benchmarks set!

As Kevin always says, Run For Cake (at least, I think it’s that!)

Today, I learnt what an Acronym was!  With a title of today’s events full of them, here are some reports kindly sent in by our runners (many of whom got PBs today or completed their first Half Marathon or Marathon):

London Landmarks Half Marathon:
The landmarks half saw us arrive in the busy capital on a dry but fresh April morning.

It was quite organised as we left our belongings on a big red bus to be reunited at the finish line and took our place in the pens.

At the start of the race they announced that at last count before the start the entrants had raised a combined £8.5 million for charity which is amazing. The run was split into 8 waves and saw runners in both club and charity tops, I spotted a Yarmouth top and Wymondham so a few of us left the County for the event.

The run itself weaved through the city with signs to look out for the landmarks, we ran past St Paul’s, The Shard, The London Eye, The Guildhall and The Royal Courts of Justice which had the gold statue of justice on the top. There was various entertainment on route from bands, to DJs and choirs and the whole route was well supported with yells, cheers and chants which were especially loud from the charity stations. We ran through the city which despite being sold as flat had a few ‘mounds of opportunity’ and then in the latter part of the run we ran through ‘ a rave tunnel’ which had dodgy lighting and equally dodgy tunes before the sun finally made an appearance for the last stretch.

The run ended down embankment where Kerrie appeared to get us through the last bit…I was definitely lagging by now so it was fab to see a friendly face and she had strategically planner her support spot. We then went over Westminster Bridge before taking a U-turn to admire Big Ben which I’m reliably informed is the only landmark Kyle saw as he sped through the course. We then had the suffragists mark the last 400m to the finish, this part was absolutely buzzing and really helped me dig deep for the final few metres. Finally we were over the line and the Chelsea pensioners were in their fine dress to present the medals. Overall it was a very well supported half through the capital with tonnes of good spirit and entertainment and raising plenty of pennies for some fab causes. Anyone after an atmosphere should get entered for next year. 😊’

Sarah-Jane

‘Are you sitting comfortably? Then I’ll begin.

Race Day – London Landmarks Half Marathon.

For the love of Mum and Mo

After a porridge and toast breakfast Leanne Kershaw, Nicola Kershaw and I took a 15 minute walk from our hotel to the bag drop village where thousands of athletes and their families were gathered. I felt a long way out of my comfort zone. 13.1 miles out of my comfort zone to be precise.

As we approached the iconic red double decker London buses, which were being used as homes for our bags for the day, I reminded myself to take in the atmosphere. Looking around at the other people wearing race numbers I could see people of all ages, shapes and sizes represented. I rubbed the little running shoe good luck charm on my and told myself, ‘I am a runner and today these are my fellow runners.’

With less than an hour to go until our official start time I ate a banana for some extra energy. Judging by the overflowing wheelie bins so did every one of the other 16,000 runners. As 10.51am approached we were funnelled through barriers with all the other ‘athletes’ in Wave 8. The Royal Wave. When Sweet Caroline boomed out through the loud speakers and everyone joined in with, ‘So Good, So Good, So Good,’ the camaraderie was palpable. Moments later we were shuffling forward, and the start line loomed into view. There was no way out now, literally.

As I ran under the start arch with Leanne and Nicola either side of me I felt a wave of apprehension. I was not at all sure I was ready to run a half marathon. Then, as we crossed the start line and started our watches we heard our names being announced over the tannoy. This was just the boost we needed. Grinning from ear to ear we were off. The first 5 minutes passed in a flash. The onlooking crowds waved and cheered. Strangers shouted our names in encouragement. The weather was a little overcast and therefore perfect for running.

We checked our watches and together we resisted the temptation to go off too quickly. Just after mile 1 we spotted familiar faces. Angie Barker, Shirley Browell and Teresa Abel were waving, shouting and rattling on the sidelines and this gave us a first turbo boost of energy. As the 2nd big yellow Mile Marker came into view I tried to feel encouraged but all I could think was, ‘we haven’t even done a park run yet.’ Reading my thoughts, Leanne said, ‘Watch your pace, I know you will be wanting to get to the end but try to take it all in and enjoy the day.’ I took my head band off and put it onto my wrist, covering my watch. I took Leanne’s advice on board and stopped looking at the distance completed every few minutes.

At mile 5 I felt as if we had met our first target. Our pace was steady and we were all still feeling comfortable. The support was phenomenal. The backdrop of London Landmarks gave the route a feeling of grandeur.

I lost count of the number of bands, choirs and musicians dotted along the route. As we passed the steel drums we all adjusted our pace to run in time with their rhythm and it felt amazing. The young lad singing The Proclaimer’s 500 miles at around mile 10 on the NSPCC cheer station made our day.

At mile 8 I finally allowed myself to think that a half marathon might be doable. At about the same time I felt what could be the beginnings of a blister on my right big toe. The last thing I wanted was to stop apply a plaster. Thankfully, it wasn’t painful and so I didn’t mention it to the girls.

Miles 9 and 10 were ok although our pace dropped off a little. By now we had seen our various teams of supporters at least 4 or 5 times each. They had spread themselves out along the routes in such a way that one group or another seemed to pop up every 10 minutes. This was brilliant and we found ourselves running a little quicker for a minute or two every time we saw them but it did mean that we didn’t dare stop for a walk break.

As we passed mile 11 we were well into new distance territory and we could feel it. We agreed to walk at water station to that we could pick up a cup and drink properly. Our legs and heads were feeling weary and we finally allowed ourselves a five minute walk break. With Mile 12 in sight more music blared from huge speakers. This time it was ‘The Final Countdown.’ It was just was we needed to hear. Running again we sang along knowing we were less than 15 minutes from crossing the finish line. (PLEASE NOTE – two years ago when I rocked up to Couch to 5k I could not run for 2 continuous minutes).

With all the crowds and cheer stations suddenly shouting, ‘You are nearly there,’ we had a quick chat about our finish line pose. We turned the corner and the big yellow 13 told us we had just 0.1 of a mile to go. We had got this! I thought of Mum and Mo and hoped that we had done them justice. My thoughts then turned to other loved ones we had said farewell to in the last 12 months and I remembered that it was a privilege to be able to run today.

Finally, after 3 hours of running we held hands. As the tannoy announcer once again said our names we raised our arms in the air and we were over the line. Strangers congratulated us, gave us our medals and handed us each a goodie bag. My legs were heavy but my heart was full. I would forever be able to say, ‘I once ran a half marathon.’

When I look at video clips of myself running I am momentarily embarrassed. It is more of a flat footed shuffle. There is nothing athletic about my gait at all. But, whatever it is, I did it for 3 hours today and for that I feel proud.

Thank you to my friends and family for always believing I could do this.

Thank you to Leanne Kershaw and Nicola Kershaw for doing this with me.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the £1700 raised for @Alzheimer’sResearchUK

Thank you to anyone who has ran with me since my first ever c25k session almost 2 years ago. Extra special thanks to White Christine, Angie Barker and Gill who kept me going week after week.  Thank you to the Thursday Jog n Jabber group for showing me that running can be fun.

And, thank you to the Runners-next-the-Sea. This is all down to you.’

Sarah

Official Results:
Kyle – 1:29:07
Sarah-Jane – 1:47:39
Lucy Mc – 1:57:26
Marie P – 2:09:52
Anna – 2:12:50
Denise – 2:50:37
Sarah – 3:03:36

Rutland Spring Half Marathon :

‘I entered this race both to discover what  Rutland Water and the peninsula looked like and also to aim for a run at effort pace continuously throughout a half marathon distance. I’m happy to have take part in the event. The race was very well-organised, with three water stations, excellent marking and lovely support from all the marshals.

The course is mostly tarmac some of which is by the main road but there are a lot of wooded trails which I actually preferred. It is quite undulating but nothing of the kind that would make it a difficult race. Some of the trails were a little muddy but again this was not a major problem.

The view around the peninsula is beautiful. I wanted to take photos while running but thought better of it as it would have definitely affected my running.

I’m very pleased with my result but, more importantly, pleased that I shared the happiness of my friend who was running her first ever half marathon. We ran together and seeing her achieve her pursuit was a great feeling.’

Nur

Official time:
2:16:25

Brighton Marathon

‘After a few hiccups with communication and a new company taking over organising the Brighton marathon, the day finally came!

Weather was overcast and chilly while waiting to be called and go into our starting corrals but once out on the course, the clouds lifted and the sun came out. It was beautiful but made for a tough run once it got to midday.

Amazing support from the crowds and volunteers made the amended route a lot better this year and knowing most of the course from the previous year I knew mostly what to expect which helped my mental mind over matter thinking. ‘

Kirsty

‘The day started very chilly with the promise of sunshine. It did indeed warm up and at times it was quite windy. Brighton was my first marathon and the nerves at the start really got to me, the task ahead seemed huge and impossible. I stuck with the 4:45 pacer for the first 6k enjoying his music and chatter, helping me forget my nerves. The route is a mixture of city streets and the seafront. The first half has some very lengthy and steep hills but with beautiful views of the seafront. I finished the first half comfortably and ran back towards the city full of confidence due the flatter second half. All was good until mile 21, the heat of the day and the energy needed for those hills left me fatigued and nauseous, I hit a huge wall.

21 miles was the peak of my training runs so self doubt crept in now and I really didn’t know if or how I could do 5 more miles. I actually don’t know how I did get to the finish, there was a lot of crying and the urge to stop was huge. I crossed the line in 4:47, thrilled to be under 5 hours and overjoyed it was over.

I loved my first marathon experience and I’m glad I chose Brighton, it’s a challenging route but the crowd make it one great big street party. It was the atmosphere and the crowds that kept me going when I was struggling. I can proudly say I have run a marathon but more importantly I raised £700 for the charity Beat. I think I’ll hang up my marathon trainers there! Box well and truly ticked.’

Official Results:
Hayley – 4:47:13
Kirsty – 5:06:17