It was a jam-packed weekend for our runners across the UK, taking on everything from world-famous road races to scenic trail routes.
Great North Run
We start with the big one: the largest half marathon in the world, the Great North Run. Starting in Newcastle with a send-off from the Red Arrows, crossing the iconic Tyne Bridge, and finishing along the South Shields seafront, 63,000 runners took part – including a strong Folkestone squad.
Running the race for the first time, was a man very much in form. Phil Haines gives his thoughts on the race:
Ran GNR for the first time, incredible experience but a super tough course for me. Was aiming to PB but early on knew that was unlikely – too hot and too many long climbs (some might say hills 🤣). Still I gave it a good shot and the atmosphere of the whole event was just incredible. Always great to run with fellow FRAC-ers too 😁
Club runner Julie Gibbs also shared her experience:
“I last ran the GNR in 2011 and 2013, chasing PBs in training for marathons. Today I ran for South Kent Mind. I just wanted to enjoy the atmosphere and raise money for a great cause! The atmosphere was amazing, and it was quite emotional hearing the stories of other runners and their reasons for supporting various charities. A race I will never forget!”
It was an eventful day for Louisa Eede:
“That was adventurous! Managed to fall at 4 miles, toilet break at 9 miles, and cry at 11. The atmosphere was insane, loved it!”
Julie Apps and Rebecca Stevenson running for Bowel Cancer UK, crossed the finish line together in 2:04:42.
Ed James – 01:33:30
Phil Haines – 01:42:34
Louisa Eede – 01:48:27
Ian Vousden – 01:54:05
Rebecca Stevenson – 02:04:42
Julie Apps – 02:04:42
Jason King – 02:09:39
Katrina Peak – 02:32:45
Julie Gibbs – 02:38:00
Worcester Half Marathon
Heading to the Midlands, Peter Sheridan took on the Worcester City Half Marathon. Battling tough conditions, Peter produced a superb performance, crossing the line in 01:35:22 to finish 6th in his age category.
Peter Sheridan – 01:35:22 (6th in age category)
Richmond Marathon
Continuing south towards London, Diane and Jake Parsons tackled the scenic roads and towpaths of the Richmond Marathon.
Jake Parsons – 03:16:41
Diane Parsons – 04:24:56
Richmond Half Marathon
Tackling the Half was Karl Letchford, who had this to say about the day:
The first section of the course was on the tarmac pathways winding through the stunning Kew Gardens and its many wonders before joining an energy sapping gravel footpath for many miles running alongside the River Thames. The final section took participants through the streets of Richmond before ending in the Old Deer Park, where a big crowd cheered runners home. My training was interrupted by a few injuries so I was delighted to finish in 1:54.
Karl Letchford 1:54.10
Rye Ancient Trails 15k
Just across the Kent border in East Sussex, a smaller than usual contingent headed into the historic woodlands for the Rye Ancient Trails race. Club stalwart Tony Scott explains why it remains a highlight on his racing calendar:
“Starting in the ancient, historic town of Rye, the Rye Ancient Trails 15k race heads up onto the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is an amazing, challenging run through fields and orchards, woodland and rolling hills, past tiny villages and through little churchyards. From the unique start by the Rye town crier to the encouraging marshals and friendly runners offering support and distracting conversation, this run has a fantastic atmosphere. I’d encourage any runner to give it a go – and if you are feeling brave, there is a 30k option as well!”
Joe Carroll – 01:18:17
Vicky Scott – 01:24:49
Anthony Scott – 01:38:48
Wingham 10k
Rounding off the weekend closer to home, runners were met with a damp, humid morning on an undulating course just outside Canterbury. Known as the only race in the world awarding bespoke clay medals crafted by Canterbury Pottery, James, Agata, and Kirsty proudly flew the club colours. All three delivered phenomenal performances, with Kirsty securing an overall podium spot!
Kirsty Wilson – 43:58 (2nd female overall)
James Springett – 44:17 (8th in age category)
Agata Daszuta – 53:22 (Club debut, PB, and 2nd in age category)
Parkrun Round-Up
Parkrun results for all club members can be viewed on the consolidated club results page.
A special shout-out this week goes to William Parry, who clocked his first sub-19-minute finish in his final parkrun before heading off to university. Bravo, Will, and best of luck!
