October 5k Handicap.

Goodbye summer, we’re back on the winter 5k handicap course

Thursday’s Handicap run was the was run on the winter course; 2 ½ laps starting from The Grange. It would be interesting to see how times compared to the summer course.

Without a visit to the pub, numbers were a little down on September, so we shall have to see if we can sort out something tempting for November!

Starting in the dark, it seems amazing to think that it was only 4 weeks ago, that we ran the whole course in daylight, something we now won’t be doing until next Spring.

We were pleased to welcome two runners to the Handicap, Andy R, who was attempting his first run in darkness, and Shelley, who ran with us for the first time. Great to have you both along, and hope to see you again soon.

The benefit of the 3 lap course is that you can see how runners are progressing during their run. When Wendy M started, Andy R had nearly completed his first lap, although as this was his qualifying run, he couldn’t win anyway.

By the time the runners completed their second lap, it was clear that it would take a gigantic effort to overtake John, who was steaming along. One lap later it was no surprise to see John come home comfortably in first place, knocking approx 2 ½ minutes off his previous PB. In second place was Simon, with a PB of his own, and over 90 seconds quicker than last month’s effort. Third and fourth places went to Michelle and Derek respectively, both setting new PBs. Lucy, who has been so consistent this year, running a straight six months in the 26 minute bracket, managed to change this, but unfortunately the wrong way, finishing in 27 minutes!!

Many thanks to all that took part, and to Steve, Sue, Jane and Mark W for marshalling. It was great to see Mark again, even if it was wearing his knee brace, post operation.