The ever popular ‘Through the Villages’ race over a distance of 8.45 miles was the main event for Red Rose Runners this weekend. The race is known for its long climb start out of Wheelton followed by a scenic but tough course through Brinscall and Abbey Village before returning to Wheelton. Alan Jolly was on familiar ground as he covered the course in 57.42 to be first RR home and 4th V45. Steve Whitney ran well to be 3rd V50 in a time of 58.44. Steve Taylor was next in 68.21. Red Rose were encouraged by some excellent and appreciated support as they tackled the difficult sections of the race. Jamie Jardine was home in 70.08 followed closely by Peter O’Grady in 70.26. Keith Burrow ran 74.37 on one of his favourite local races followed by Anneke Crosby and Jenny Fairclough who pulled each other round in 81.59. Ramona Mulligan’s first taste of this race resulted in a hard earned 1.49.05.
A handful of runners headed to Todmorden for the Shepherds Skyline fell race. Stuart Cann was first home in 56.39 then Frank Nightingale, 61.03 and Geoff Howarth 63:04. The ladies followed with Margaret Lupton leading again, 71:50, with Paula Plowman just behing 72:06, Debbie Porter 73:00 and Sally Cape 85:29.
At the Derwentwater 10 mile Joe and Ken once more competed over the scenic course around the lake. The undulating opening 5 miles saw them neck and neck. The long pull on the side of Cat Bells and a series of hills and descents saw a gap open with Joe taking the lead. Their finishing times of 64.34 and 65.15 saw them placed 2nd and 3rd in the V55 category. John Wiseman was the third Red Rose runner finishing in 83.00.
Parkrun events continue to inspire many peole to run. At Cuerden Valley 148 people met last Saturday with several RR managing to improve their PB’s. Jon Royle 25.34, Yvonne Johnson 27.11, Alice Lodge 29.21, Mac McCormack 37.33. At Preston 200 runners enjoyed the autumn morning with PB’s from Stephen Robertson 22.21 and Louise Davitt 29.48.