Sidmouth Running Club members have been busy gaining new PB’s, entering events they never thought they would and, on the whole, enjoying the beautiful weather.
The weather wasn’t on Shirley Huntington’s side when she took part in her first 10k event on Good Friday. Running for Devon Air Ambulance with her husband Bob, the wet and windy conditions did not spoil the City Runs event and she was very pleased to finish in 1:10:12 with Bob finishing exactly on the hour.
Mighty Green, Mark Andow, went back to his old stomping ground to take part in the Butcombe trail race. This was a self-navigating 50 miler which connected six iconic Butcombe pubs through the stunning Mendip Hills AONB. The event raises funds for the Mendip Hills Fund supporting local conservation and communities, which Mark experienced first hand taking in breath taking views and getting a true taste of the area’s natural beauty. Check points were excellently stocked with fresh food and friendly volunteers offering fantastic support. Mark fully appreciated the post-race massage having gained a new PB for that distance knocking 40 minutes off his previous time finishing in 11 hours 19 minutes.
Five SRC members took part in the Sid Valley Ring half marathon on Saturday morning. Organised by Climb South West, the route follows the Sid Valley Ring, heading across the seafront and up Bickwell Valley. Colin Ryan was the first MG to finish in 2:06:18, also first in his age category 60-69, Alice Gill finished in 2:30:27, Scott Chown 2:34:03 and twins Christine and Karen Farnham, having stopped to look at two sleepy piglets in Harcombe. Finished in 2:49:56.
Two Mighty Greens took part in LME’s Maer half marathon, though Alexa Baker was marshalling rather than running. It did mean she could cheer Roger Worthington on in the sunshine, who went on to finish in 1:52:41.
SRC junior leader, Grahame Womersley-Westlake enjoyed the sunny weather on Sunday taking part in LDWA’s 50k Sidmouth saunter. Despite the heat and hilly terrain, Grahame was delighted to finish just under 7 hours with a new PB!
The club were following the progress of Amanda Stokes and Becky Knapman who ran the London marathon on Sunday. Both had raised large amounts for their respective charities alongside rigorous training runs. Becky said it was an experience of a life time, the training paid off and she felt strong the whole way round, although happy to finish. Both Becky and Amanda appreciated the support and advice from club members, especially Richard King who helped with nutrition. Amanda finished in 3:58:40 and Becky 4:23:04. Congratulations!