While Max was having a great race at the British Championships in Birmingham, 23 slower Harriers were taking part in the York 10k on Sunday morning. It was typical weather for early August with rain showers and overcast cloud. A big field of 5,361 finishers took part in the scenic flat course around York and by the river, which was well supported.
The first four Harriers home all completed the course in under 40 minutes and all placed in the top 150; an excellent achievement in such a big race. Ken Montgomery was first, finishing in 80th place in 37:33 followed by James O’Rourke (106th in 38:29). April Stewart was the first of the club’s ladies, taking 122nd spot in 38:45. This was April’s second fastest 10k and her quickest for eight years, underlining the significant improvement she has made this year. There were Personal Best times for Jack Melia (47:09), Sufyan Ghafoor (59:31) and James Stewart (1:04:45).
The results from the race can be found on the Recent Races tab of the Harriers website and the updated Race Challenge spreadsheet can be found on the Club Races / Harriers Road Race Challenge tab. https://www.halifaxharriers.co.uk/club-races/harriers-road-race-challenge/
The next race in the Challenge is the Littleborough 5k on 26th August, if we get race entry details from the organisers, and then the Vale of York Half on the 7th September.
Max Burgin, resplendent in blue and gold, won his second national Men's 800m title on Sunday in Birmingham in emphatic style, against a very good field. In less than ideal, blustery conditions, Max lead from gun to tape, finishing in 1:43:92.
On Sunday a group of runners enjoyed a pleasant 8-mile circular social run from Mytholmroyd to Stoodley Pike and back.
The run was organised by our very own Alan Brady and Marc Rocheteau and included four runners from his previous club, Spectrum Striders of Warrington (Nikki, Kate Geoff and Anthony) and eight Harriers (Marc, Annie, Fiona, Keith, Alan, Martin, David Ingle Snr and David Ingle Jnr).
The weather was fine and we were ably guided by Marc who took us up hill and down dale and he even included a history lesson at various points, including pointing out the former home of the Cragg Vale Coiners. After the run, Alan and Gail provided us all with piping hot samosas and ginger cookies. A brilliant end to an excellent day of running and camaraderie