The Ian Stansfield 5k race on 6th August was ran around Cowm Reservoir at Whitworth on Monday, celebrating Ian’s long outstanding contribution to the sport, with over 50 years of competitive running behind him.
Seventy-five eager runners lined up at the start, where a steep but thankfully short uphill section led up to the reservoir, which presented a pancake flat, but slightly loose surface to stretch out on in the hot evening sun.
Barring a tight zig zagging turn at the far end of the reservoir, this was a fast course of long sweeping curves, returning along the front wall of the reservoir through the Water Ski Centre and on to a repeat lap. After completing a second circuit of the reservoir, runners dropped back down the now speedy descent to the finish line, before retiring to the nearby Cock & Magpie for prize giving.
Halifax Harrier’s junior Harry Johnson won the race in an impressive 17m25s. Simon Johnson led the MV50 category and finished 3rd overall, closely followed by James Johnson, finishing as 2nd MJ and 8th overall. April Caufield continued her great year of racing as first senior female in a time of 20m17s, chasing James to the finish line, whilst the Harriers were also well represented by Will Stewart, Nigel Taylor (MV45 3rd) and Andrew Clancey.
Proceeds from the race went to Overgate Hospice in Elland.
Max Burgin has earned another international call up. This time he has been selected to run as part of a Team GB U20 team at the forthcoming Manchester International event at Sports City on August 15th, where he will line up in the 800m against a quality field of seniors and U20 athletes.
Tickets can be bought from https://events.englandathletics.org/event/manchester-international-athletics/profile
The young athletes from the Halifax Harriers dominated the Yorkshire and District Athletics League this year , taking the division one title and securing a place in the Premiere division for next season. The competition took place over four meetings the final one taking place in Cudworth, Barnsley last Sunday. Team captain Harry Keighley was presented with the winners shield on his last outing for the junior section. The Harriers would like to thank all the coaches and helpers who made this great achievement possible.