The ramp-up to the Olympics is now well underway and the Diamond League in Monaco gave athletes a chance to test their mettle. In a perhaps unexpected, but exciting turn of events, Laura Muir broke the Scottish record over 800m just days after she withdrew from that distance at the Olympics. She ran a convincing best of 1:56.73 and is now second on the all-time UK rankings.

It was a brilliant race which saw her turn the tables on Jemma Reekie, who has recently been dominant. Reekie herself had a great run through, securing herself third on the UK all-time and second in the event, finishing in 1:56.96. Lizzie Bird may have been in the final race of the evening, but she made it worth hanging on for, running a 9:22.80 in the 3000m steeplechase and setting a stunning new British record in the process.

 

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In Talinn this week the European U23 Championships were the place to see the next generation of talent on their way up. Issy Boffey shone out as the best result from the event – she was already U20 Euro champion and now adds the U23 crown to her CV after winning in 2:01.80. Khahisa Mhlanga finished 4th running 2:04.05. The men’s 800m saw Thomas Randolph pink up a fantastic bronze medal in a tight finish running 1:46.41 to edge out team mate Ben Pattison who ran 1:46.48. Finlay Mclear was 5th with 1:47.53.

 

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Erin Wallace produced a fine display to pick up a bronze medal in the women’s 1500m running 4:14.85. After winning his heat George Mills placed fifth in the men’s 1500m final with 3:40.91 and Josh Lay was eight in 3:41.29. Over 5000m, Tom Mortimer finished fourth in 13:48.67 with Isaac Akers finished 10th with 14:07.03. In the 10000m Eleanor Bolton ran 34:06:07 for eight, while David Melvill finished 19th in 31:11:42. Eleanor Bolton is set to race again over 5000m later this evening with in form Izy Fry also competing.

In the chase Sarah Tait ran 10:04.53 to finish 5th with Elise Thorner 8th with 10:12.41, there were no British men in the final of the steeplechase.

MacLennan and Nolan ensure another Fast Friday

Back on home-turf, the FASTFriday in Walthamstow included the England Athletics Championships. The pacers did their job in the women’s race before Mhairi MacLennan and Hannah Irwin duked it out for a while, taking turns in the lead until Maclennan put in a decisive move at the 7-8k point and raced home to the win in 33:09.62. Irwin held on hard to come second in 33:26.03 and Clara Evans continued a strong year of performances to place third in 34:02.56. Further down the field, Anna Boniface, Ruby Woolfe and Amy Killick set new PBs.

With the first three athletes over the line competing for Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales respectively the England title was retained by Nicole Taylor of Tonbridge who finished 4th overall in 34:15.06 with the silver medal going to Sally Ratcliffe of AFD with Anna Boniface winning bronze.

The men’s race was a pack of five from the outset. Dom Nolan made his move with one lap to go, taking the England crown in 29:13.70 (PB). The rest of the pack held close – Josh Grace was second in 29:15.04 (PB), National XC Champion Calum Johnson was third in 29:16.65 (PB), Nigel Martin fourth in 29:17.51 and Lucian Allison faded a little more but held on for a PB and fifth place in 29:30.93 – great to see him back racing again.

British Ultra Trail Championship

The British Ultra Trail Championship took place at the Lakeland 100k. Athletes started at midnight tackling the a channeling route around Ambleside, Bampton and Grasmere. Fast10 athetle George Foster secured the men’s title and a seat on the plane to the World Trail Running Champs in Thailand later this year, running 9:29.11.

Experienced mountain racer Nick Swinburn will join him after finishing and with 9:41.15. Harry Jones was third running 10.03.00.

Meryl Cooper claimed the women’s British title and will also be off to Thailand the world champs after her win and new course record of 11:31:19. Experienced GB ultra and trail runner Jo Meek will be joining her after picking up the silver medal running 12:08:54. Claudia Chmielowska was third in 12:48:35.

Start of the Lakeland 100k which is a trial for the GB team. A very different experience as the race starts at midnight. Leaders not expected back until 9:30 ish pic.twitter.com/9DPSERjebF

— England Athletics Endurance (@EnglandRunning) July 9, 2021

Domestic track roundup

Ilford’s Ahmed Abdulle (U23) led a fast field at the Essex 5000m Championships, racing home to take the top spot in 14:42.1. Adam Hickey was next in 14:50.4 and Colcester & Tendring’s Freddy Richardson took third in 15:02.0. The women’s race was one-woman affair with Basildon’s Rachel Wiseman taking a convincing victory in 17:54.3. That left Hayley Lamkin to take second in a PB of 19:13.2 and Victoria Primmer third, also a PB, of 19:23.8

The Guildford and Godalming AC 5000 sadly had no female entrants at all, but the gents did themselves proud. Sam Begg obliterated his opposition, running 16:05.3 and setting a new PB to be very proud of.

Tim Harman and Jame Parton both ran their best ever races, finishing in 17:21.1 and 17:37.3 to complete the podium. The night belonged to the U23s at the Tonbridge AC Evening Meeting 5000m meet. Oliver Prior (U23 Ashford AC) led the men’s times, breaking the tape in 15:02.75 and beating U20 Louis Small (15:10.51) and Daniel Bradley (15:13.11). Imogen Amos (U23 Tonbridge) was the winning lady in 18:26.37. She held off Chloe Bird (18:33.28) and Lucy Thompson (18:39.96)

Aldershot, Farnham and District’s Open Meet saw Southampton AC coach Steve Phillips ran 8:49.54 to win the 3000m. He’s coached by Mick Woods though, so a local gent really.

The home club took the women’s victory too thanks to a 9:29.86 run from Emily Moyes. Thames Valley Harriers Open Meeting offered another chance to test the legs over 3000m and it was PB’s all the way. Richard Slade (U23 Chiltern) led the way in 8:51.60 with Jake Hooley (U23 Thames Valley) next in 9:30.46 and Cameron McConnon (U15 Thames Valley) in 9:31.74. For the ladies it was Bedford and County’s Lyla Danobrega who won her first ever outing at the distance, running 11:01.94

Over 1500m at the BMC Regional Races, Wormwood Scrubs, Georgie Hartigan of Birchfield Harriers came out top in 4:08.75 as did William Broom (U23 Chichester)who finished in 3:48.05.

On the roads

On the roads this week, Run Through’s Chase the Sun Tatton Park 10k was won by VPH’s Aaron McGrady in 34:30 and Faye Jasmine Waterhouse of Stockport Harriers in 40:30

Meanwhile, the Yateley 10k went to the wire in the men’s race with Max Worringham (Reading RR) holding off Ranelagh Harriers’ Nick Twomey by one second to finish in 34:07. AFD’s James Quinlan was third in 34:35.

However, the standout performance of the race goes to U23 Kate Estlea of Basingstoke & Mid Hants AC who absolutely smashed her PB by over two minutes to finish eight over all in 36:10. She’s not got many results to her name but with gains like that in a year she may well be one to keep an eye on. Second lady was Sarah Cleland in 40:56.

The Wilmslow Summer 10k took place earlier today and while we are awaiting chip times, it looks likely that Salford Harriers made a clean sweep of the men’s race thanks to Marc Brown (30:07), David Barratt (30:08) and Michael Cayton (30:30). Samantha Harrison made sure no one could get close to her, running 32:38 for victory in the women’s race, nearly two minutes ahead of Anna Bracegirdle (34:23) and Hannah Robinson (35:05) is likely to be placed third.

 

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At the Dorking 10s Michael Alwin came away victorious in the 10k thanks to a confident run of 32:27. Jilly Raw was first lady in 41:03. Over the 10 mile distance it was Jonathan Cornish’s turn to take the gold spot in a time of 51:03. Emily Wicks ran a storming race to take her crown in 59:46.

In Richmond Park the Half Marathon saw Melissah Gibson win in 1:26:24 (6th OA), ahead of Karla Borland in 1:27:41 (8th OA) and Adrienne Baddely in 1:31:04.

Pierre Meslet topped the men’s race in 1:21:17, beating Joseph Ball (1:23:35) and Brieuc Lehmann (1:24:18). There was a range of distances on offer at Chepstow Racecourse today.

James Griffiths and Danielle Phillips won the 5k in 16:33 and 21:21 respectively. Over 10k it was V45 Elizabeth Davies who stood out in the results with her 3rd place overall in 36:04. Arthur Dickson-Bell took the men’s win in 34:25. Fastest in the half marathon was Lee Kibble in 1:16:41 – four minutes ahead of his closest rival. Sophie Walton was winning lady in 1:33:14.

The mountains are calling

There was great running from Zak Hanna and Charlotte Morgan in Austria on the Grossglockner. Full report and pictures here.

Photo: Marco Gulberti

The post Success in Tallinn, England 10000m & British Trial Champs crowned – weekend roundup appeared first on Fast Running.

Another week passes as we glance over the list of events that should have been and ponder what this race-free world means for runners. We got in touch with a few who would have been racing this weekend to find out what they were doing instead.

Base building for Cardiff’s Smith

British Under-23 Half Marathon record holder, Jake Smith (Cardiff) should have been testing his mettle at the World Athletics Half Marathon Championships in Gdynia, Poland today after running 62 flat at the Big Half at the beginning of March.

Jake is based in Cardiff where he has just bought a house and is currently finishing his dissertation. He’s sharing his lock-down fun times with fellow Team Thie athlete Ciaran Lewis. Instead of hitting the streets of the Gdańsk Bay they’ll be hitting Cardiff Bay (well, somewhere round Cardiff anyway) and doing a 15 mile long run together.

Jake says “as soon as the world championships got cancelled I took my break, so I’m still in the base phase now. I’ve bought a treadmill and just finished making it.

It’s just Ciaran and I in the house as the others have gone home now so I’m going to have some fun with training and do some hard incline efforts on the treadmill.

We’ll also be working on some strength and conditioning looking into hamstring and glute exercises. We’re focussing on just enjoying it and getting into a good routine so we aren’t bored during this lockdown.”

Jake’s team-mates this weekend would have been Chris Thompson, earning his first GB vest  on the road, Ben Connor, Matt Leach and Mo Aaden.

Inglis keeping good company

Lily Partridge was due to continue her return to form, racing in her first British vest since Berlin 2018. Samantha Harrison (71:01) and Steph Davis (71:15) had both produced PBs at the Big Half. They secured their places on the team alongside Hayley Carruthers and Sarah Inglis (Lawley RC). Inglis’ 70:24 in Houston back in January sees her ranked 4th in the Uk this year.

#plankchallenge #PlankTheCurve #PlankOfTheWeek #StayAtHomeAndStaySafe #fridaynightshavechanged @bdconnor pic.twitter.com/mPdI8upJ8q

— LILY PARTRIDGE (@LilyPartridge01) March 28, 2020

Sarah Inglis is currently based in Vancouver, Canada. When we spoke to her they were not officially locked down yet. As such she was still planning to get in 2 hours of running in lieu of her planned race.

She’s still bearing in mind the advice  given though, saying “this may be on mountain trails, which are remote. Our training group is not meeting at the moment so we will only be out in pairs.

My boyfriend Ron has similar PB’s  to me so we are good to work together! We are keeping training going – just more fartlek and volume for the moment so that when the races come, we’ll be ready”.

It’s not all easy-life for those in the wilds though. Sarah is a PE teacher and Ron is a PT, so they are both laid off at the moment and are self isolating. They are trying to make the best of the situation. Having a laugh as they do it – they’ve been doing Instagram live core videos for friends.

However, the story we love most is that Sarah and Ron have a competitive card game each evening where the loser has to do a silly forfeit. If you take a look at Sarah’s insta you’ll see that she’s missing part of an eyebrow. Proof that you can take the competitions away from the runners but you can never take their competitive spirit.

Davis narrowly escapes full lock down in Spain

Steph Davis was out in Girona when the lockdown started in Spain. She returned just as things were getting tighter in the UK. Davis left London to go back to her parent’s and can currently be found leading them in her own boot-camp sessions!

Like Lily Partridge and Hayley Carruthers, Steph Davis (Clapham Chasers) was building towards London Marathon and a shot at a place on the Olympic team. We spoke to her about her feelings on the postponement of her international debut and what she’s doing at the moment:

“I was super excited to be putting on the GB gear and representing my country for the first time. The day the kit arrived at my flat, was the same day we were informed that the race was postponed. I was dancing around trying out my new kit when the news landed.

As expected, I was really disappointed but in all honesty, I wasn’t surprised. I knew deep down this would be the first of many. When the news about London Marathon was announced, I felt a bit in limbo.

We were initially told to keep training as normal whilst UK Athletics were checking the possibility of hosting a closed circuit event for the Olympic trials, but I was finding it hard to believe this would really go ahead. And a week later the news hit that there would be no trials race. Time to reassess my training….

I’ve been back to back marathon training since Summer 2018 (pre-Berlin) so after discussions with my coach, we both agreed it was a no brainer to ease off for a couple of weeks, focus on some strength and conditioning and make a gradual come back, whilst we have the time!

 

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My family are delighted to be in lockdown with me…welcome to Steph’s Quarantine Bootcamp . . . #covid #isolation #quarantineworkout #homeworkout #fitness #keepfit #family #circuittraining #HIIT #runner #marathonrunner #training #grouptraining

A post shared by Steph Davis (@steph_davis26) on Mar 26, 2020 at 10:26am PDT

Building a new routine

I have been coping ok with the parameters we have to work within. I’ve made a routine around working from home. Some things that I am doing and challenges I have set myself are:

• Yoga is something that I’ve always neglected due to time constraints (and a short attention span!). I am now using my time to do a sequence every morning. I am currently doing Yoga with Adrienne’s 30-day programme on YouTube – really recommend it!
• At the moment, I am mixing up my daily outing between running, cycling and walking my dog.
• One thing I miss from my routine is the elliptical trainer. However I’ve taken over my Dad’s turbo for now. I’ve never used one before so the novelty of that has been really fun!
• The turbo has also been a great way for me to continue my commutes to and from work in a virtual form.
• I love putting plans together and encouraging others to keep active. So I’ve got my family doing HIIT sessions in the garden. The neighbours probably think we are nuts!
• I always complain I don’t have time to cook or read so I am challenging myself to experiment in the kitchen and read a book every couple of weeks.

Most importantly I am making sure I stay connected. To my friends, teammates and my family members I am not isolated with.”

Exercise an amazing coping mechanism for Josh

The Brecon Carreg Cardiff Bay Run 10k was shaping up to be a tasty race this weekend as well with European and UK runners expected to run some fast times. Cardiff based Charlotte Arter will have to wait until the 15th November to defend her title from 2019.

She was due to race alongside her training partner and Fast10 member Jenny Nesbitt and Verity Ockenden.

Josh Griffiths (Swansea) was looking to get some fast work in his legs as part of his London Marathon prep. Josh says

“Instead I will be going for an easy run and cycle (indoor bike) as well as some work. I’m having a bit of time to freshen up now before building towards summer and autumn races. Obviously this isn’t how I had planned the year to go but nobody expected this.

This is a global problem. We all need to do our part to look after ourselves and those close to us. It’s a really stressful time for everyone right now. I’ve actually found that exercise has been an amazing coping mechanism. I always feel so much better after going for a run.”

Over to you

And with those wise words we’ll leave the ‘elite’ world. We tip our hat to all of you who are staying active within the parameters available to you and mindful of your responsibility to those around.

Do let us know what your training is looking like at the moment – have you been getting over your fear of the ‘mill and invested in one? Or perhaps you’re planning to come out of lockdown with a core of steel?

We’ve already heard from Julia Mitchelmore (VP&TH) who was meant to be running Canberra Marathon and is instead working her way round running #everysinglestreet in her parent’s town in Australia. Fiona English (WeAreDaybreak) was due to run her first ever 50miler. She still did that, but mindful of not putting herself in a situation where she needed help from medics she did it in loops locally so that she could stop at any point.

At FastRunning towers there’s a mixture of treadmill, home garden gyms, turbos and road runs going on. Personally, I’m trying to be good and get some consistent S&C in now that the mileage is harder to fit in, so here’s hoping for greater-glutes come race season! ‘Till next time, stay safe.

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Scott runs a stunning European indoor 5000m record

Over in the US, at the Boston University Last Chance Invitational, Marc Scott had an absolutely storming run in the 5,000m. Not only did he set a British indoor record, but a European indoor record too! Scott ran a hard race in a high-quality field and took home 2nd place in a fantastic 13:08.87 to beat the previous record set by Mo Farah.

Cambridge and Coleridge’s Holly Archer was also competing in Boston and  rounded her indoor season off in the 1500m where she ran a fantastic four second PB of 4:13.62.

It’s been a fantastic indoor season for British athletes and James West added some icing to an already impressive cake by placing himself 7th on the UK 1500mi all-time list with 3:36.93. He placed 4th overall in the race and set was is believed to be a NCAA record as well! Impressive running in Boston all round.

 

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So this guy just ran a British and European indoor record for the 5km of 13:08.87 which takes down Mo Farah’s record of 13.09.16! . . . No way I could follow up on that!! I ran a 4 second PB of 4:13.62! (Little disappointed) but this is the third race in 7 days with a flight to Glasgow and Boston so Im happy to be where I’m at in February!

A post shared by Holly Archer (@hollyaarcher) on Feb 28, 2020 at 4:44pm PST

Front running Thompson gets his reward

One of the highlights of the weekend was The Big Half, where athletes were competing for spots in the World Half Marathon Championships in Poland next month. The top 3 male and female finishers were automatically selected (providing they achieved the qualification standard) and 2 others will be chosen to complete the two teams of five.

Ethiopian legend Kenenisa Bekele was put to the test by Chris Thompson early in the race as the AFD man led through half way. Bekele though asserted his dominance and came out on top pushing on in the latter stages to break the course record in 60:22.

Thompson finished 2nd securing a World Half place ahead of a flying Jake Smith. The 21-year-old athlete had an absolutely storming run to finished 3rd overall in 62:00 breaking his own British u/23 record. Ross Millington finished 4th in a PB of 62:33 ahead of the next Brit Mohamud Aadan – 6th in 63:21. Omar Ahmed (7th in 63:33) and Josh Griffiths (8th in 63:57) rounded off those running sub 64.

Athletes running sub 65 were Adam Clarke (64:05), Weynay Ghebreselasie (64:19), Frank Baddick (64:39) and Derek Hawkins (64:51).

Partridge leads strong British field

There was a  hard fought battle in the women’s race. Samantha Harrison held the lead until the 8-mile point when she was met by Birchfield’s Lily Partridge. After working alongside each other it was Partridge that had the upper hand and pushed away from to claim the win in a rapid 70:50. It was a measured and controlled performance from the Alan Storey coached athlete and a fine time in breezy conditions.

Shortly behind was Harrison in 71:01, 42 seconds quicker than her time from Barcelona Half two weeks ago. A first GB vest is rich reward for a gutsy, aggressive run from the ever improving Notts athlete.

Building on what was an been an incredible 12 months for Steph Davis the Clapham Chaser came home in 3rd with a time of 71:15. The Clapham Chasers athlete confirmed her first ever GB vest in style with a lifetime best by over 1 minute 45 seconds. In fourth place was Hayley Carruthers in 71:49, followed by Eleanor Davis (Preston) in 72:35, only one second off of her lifetime best.

After a fine recent run to finish 2nd at Granollers Half Lucy Reid will be delighted with a huge PB of 72:49 for 6th. There were fine displays from other athletes clocking sub 75 – Clara Evans (7th – 73:14), Jenny Spink (8th – 74:19), Fiona Brian (9th – 74:23), Breege Connolly (10th – 74:40) and Rebecca Murray (11th – 74:49).

 

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@lilypartridge 1:10:50⁣ @samanthaharrison95 1:11:01⁣ @steph_davis26 1:11:15⁣ ⁣ 3 fantastic British runners make up the podium in the Elite Women’s Race!⁣ ⁣ #BigHalf #MovedByLondon

A post shared by The Vitality Big Half (@officialbighalf) on Mar 1, 2020 at 3:05am PST

Quality field contests Trafford 10km

Trafford 10k caters for all abilities but always ensures a fantastic option for those looking for fast times. It definitely attracts top athletes, and this year was no different. Taking home the win for the women and shaving a second off her PB was Jess Judd who clocked 32:16. Judd is in fine form after a recent 2nd placed finish at the National XC Champs.

The adidas athlete fought hard in the wind and managed to steal the win from Eilish Mccolgan who made a late decision to enter the race finishing in 32:25. After an absolutely storming cross country season, Bronwen Owen put her legs to the test on the road. The Leeds City AC athlete set a new PB of 33:30, taking over a minute off her best from last year.

In the men’s race, James Hunt of Cardiff ran himself to a convincing win with a 30 second lead in 29:44. Despite the conditions, Hunt also ran a 14 second best time. After winning the Welsh National Cross Country Championships last weekend, Hunt too is evidently noticing the benefits of the cross season.

In a sprint to the line, it was Stockport Harrier’s athlete Andrew Davies who landed himself in second place with a strong time of 30:14, his best since 2017. Hunt’s clubmate, Rowan Axe, came third in 30:16 to round off the podium positions. 14 men ran sub 31 and 23 women ran sub 37 in a high quality race in challenging conditions.

Amazing morning at our Trafford 10K. 2021 48 hour early bird now open, just £13/£15 including a bespoke medal, OTE flapjack, chip timing plus a rapid, closed road course!! Well done to each and everyone who ran our helped make today special. pic.twitter.com/bNSJBBnDKm

— Run North West store & events (@RunnorthwestRun) March 1, 2020

Roundup of the roads

Back over the half marathon distance was the Warwick Half at Warwick racecourse. The men’s victory went to Ian Allen of Spa Striders in a strong 69:41 ahead of Richard Shephard (72:55) and Ben Kruze (73:07). For the women, Laura Peil too took home the win in 81:36 from Jo McCandless (82:17) and Claire Fitzpatrick (85:19).

In the Eastbourne Half Marathon, Billy Mead of Leighton Buzzard AC gave a strong performance throughout the race to secure a time of 76:50. The winner in the women’s race was Katie Sloane who had a solid run and crossed the line in 85:29.

At the St. Helen’s 10k Matt Crehan won in 31:26 just 4 seconds outside his course record from 2018, which is a quick time considering the 300ft of climbing en route. Crehan was followed home by St. Helens Sutton A.C. team mates Jon-Jo Doherty and Charlie Roberts. The ladies winner was Crehan’s fiancee and para-athlete Jade Smith in 39:46, who beat St. Helens’ Strider Rachel Fairclough and Hannah Whittaker on the day.

At the Serpentine Last Friday of the Month 5K Susan McDonald won in 18:52 narrowly beating Juliette Braithwaite (18:55) with Fast Running’s Gill Bland 3rd in 19:25. For the men Oliver Newton secured a convincing win in 15:52 ahead of Sage Pearce-Higgins (16:11) and Andrew Inglis (16:13).

The OMC Motor Group Ron Hill Accrington 10k was won by Luc Burnip in 34:20 and Sophie Pilkington in 42:10. Victoria Park 10km was won by Andrea Berquez in 39:14 and Paul Grange in 33:26.

Final stages of XC season

Cross country took a back seat this weekend with only a few races occurring as the season comes towards its end. In the Mid Lancs Cross Country League, the women’s race was dominated by Emily Japp. The Blackpool Wyre & Fylde AC athlete took the win by over 30 seconds. For the men, it was U20 athlete, Jacob Cann (Lancaster Uni RC) who took home the win with a fine run.

The Start Fitness North Eastern Harrier League cross country race took place at Alnwick Castle. The win in the senior men’s race was secured by Samuel Charlton of Wallsend Harriers. The women’s race was a very similar story as Wallsend also took home the win by a significant distance. It was senior athlete Alex Hemsley was crowned the winner.

Outside of British success, Galen Rupp dominated the men’s US Olympic Marathon Trial in Atlanta, cementing his place to represent USA in Tokyo this summer. Rupp will be joined by Jacob Riley and Abdi Abdirahman. For the women, Aliphine Tuliamuk was first to secure her place on the US team, followed by Molly Seidel, who was running her first ever marathon! The third place went to Sally Kipyego.

We were expecting to see some quick running at Paris Half Marathon but the race became the latest to fall victim to cancellations due to Coronavirus.

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The post World half spots decided & Scott Euro indoor record – weekend roundup appeared first on Fast Running.

Juniors shine as British records fall

Our younger athletes were on fine form this weekend. It would be fair to say that Jemma Reekie stunned everyone (including, from her twitter, herself) when she ran 1:57.91 for 800m to take half a second off the British indoor record and beat Laura Muir in the process at an invitation women’s 800m race at Glasgow’s Emirates Arena. Laura Muir ran an indoor 800m PB herself of 1:58.44.

In Vienna Track & Field meet Tom Keen (Cambridge & Coleridge) set a new UK U20 indoor record when he ran 3:41.44 to place 3rd right behind his older team-mate Archie Davis who took was 2nd in 3:41.18. Keely Hodgkinson ensured that the ladies held the limelight in Austria too, clocking 2:01.16 and defeating not just the UK but the European indoor record for the women’s 800m. Finally, and despite reportedly taking a body blow from one of the pacers in his 800m race, Alex Botterill managed to hold his nerve and run a punchy indoor PB of 1:47.93. While not a ‘race’ (in case you hadn’t heard), it’s worth noting that the Welsh didn’t want to be left out of the record breaking, so Charlotte Arter ran a parkrun world best of 15:49 in Cardiff.

Revee Walcott-Nolan (800m) and Kieran Reilly (1500m) were competing for England at the Reykjavik International Games. We are awaiting times but we know Revee was a comfortable winner amd Kieran was 2nd.

Our England team has two record breakers at the Vienna Indoor Track & Field! Congrats Keely Hodgkinson for her 800m win & European Junior Indoor record time of 2:01.16 & Thomas Keen for setting a British Junior Indoor record 3:41.44 in the 1500m! Results: https://t.co/N5hyAwXCHw pic.twitter.com/gkmYS591ee

— England Athletics (@EnglandAthletic) February 1, 2020

Anna Møller and Mahamed Mahamed win BUCS XC

In Holyrood Park, Edinburgh, at the BUCS Cross Country Championships university athletes were in action. Anna-Emilie Møller was never in any danger and retained her title in the 8k women’s race finishing in 28:03 for St Mary’s ahead of Jess Judd (28:49, Loughborough) in second. Fast10 member Jenny Nesbitt (29:22, Cardiff Met) was third. Those at the course tell us that Amelia Quirk was taken off for some medical treatment, so we hope she’s ok and wish her well. Fast Running’s own Hannah Irwin did Surrey proud, finishing in 13th place in 30:26. Loughborough took the women’s team title.

In the men’s 10k race it was Solent’s Mahamed Mahamed who ran a convincing victory in 28:37 to finish well ahead of Bangor’s Joe Steward (29:14) and Aston’s Jayme Rossiter (29:21). Despite not having a podium finisher, the overall performances were enough to ensure team gold was won by St Mary’s.

In the women’s short-race (6k) gold went to Grace Carson (Loughborough) in 22:06. Silver was also Loughborough’s thanks to Giorgia Chattwood (22:14) and Kate O’Neill nabbed bronze for Birmingham in 22:19. St Mary’s took the 1-2 in the men’s short-race (8k) with Joe Wigfield first home in 26:43 and Alex Ediker following him up in 26:48. Loughborough grabbed the final podium spot though as Thomas Patrick came third in 26:54.

Anna Moller on her way to a convincing victory at the BUCS XC. Credit: Callum Gillett

Hawkins and Purdue race in Japan

While they may still be youngsters, Charlotte Purdue and Callum Hawkins can fairly be described as being on the more experienced end of their sport these days. Both were in action at the Marugame Half Marathon in Japan this weekend and both proved that their training is on fire at the moment. These two will be ones to watch in London and Tokyo for sure. Purdue ran a massive 1 minute and 22 seconds faster than last year to take 2nd place in 68:23 behind Helalia Johannes of Namibia. It is Hawkins though that tugged at our heartstrings, running 60:01 to place 3rd. So close to sub 60 Callum, so close! He ran a gutsy race, taking it out on his own terms and digging in at the end to get that tantalising time. Also out to check in on her training this weekend was Lily Partridge who was due to run one of the Murcia Marathon races as part of her long run. We’ll keep an eye out and let you know as soon as the results are published.

60.01! So close for Callum Hawkins (@callhawk) on sub 60. Led from the gun, pushed it on, dug in for 3rd place. We know it’s only a matter of time…………. @NewBalanceUK #Marugame #Racing #Japan https://t.co/k4nYf7C0M8

— Moyo Sports (@Moyo_Sports) February 2, 2020

Elsewhere in Spain the England Athletics squad were racing at the Granollers Half Marathon. In a competition that saw all the England ladies place within the top 10, Lucy Reid took second in 1:14:01 with just one spot between her and Jenny Spink who was fourth in 14:53, Alison Lavender was 6th in 1:16:45 and Katie White eighth in 1:18:26. For the men, Mohamud Aadan (TVH) placed sevent in 1:03:32 and Josh Lunn (Bedford and County) was 11th in 1:07:13.

England Five Mile Champs

The Alsager 5 hosted the first England Athletics Road Championships of 2020. Beth Potter took the debut win of the year with over a minute to spare, running 25:34. Elsey Whyman-Davis was testing the speed in her legs as she builds towards the London Marathon and bagged second place in 26:44 ahead of Kate Holt in 26:58 and another marathoner, Elinor Kirk, who took 4th in 27:51.

It was Omar Ahmed of Birchfield Harriers who took the men’s premier placing in a slightly closer race, though still with room to breathe. Ahmed finished in 23:25 with Emile Cairess (Leeds City AC) shortly behind him in 23:46. In what would have been a winning time last year, Johnny Mellor kept the top three all under 24 with his third-place time of 23:55.

More from the roads around the UK

The Dewsbury 10k kicked off Chris Parr’s racing year with a win for the Morpeth Harriers athlete, breaking the tape in 29:57. Altrincham & District AC’s Muhammad Abu-Rezeq was second in 30:11 and Joe Sagar of Spenborough & District AC took third in 30:45. Sharon Barlow of Harrogate Harriers was winning woman in a time of 34:45 which was nearly a 1 minute PB. Julie Briscoe was runner up in 35:01 and Alice Leake third in 35:05.

At the Chicester 10k it was Nick Goolab who took the honour of first past the post in what looks to have been quite the battle for podium places. In a race where 30 minutes was only good enough for eighth, Goolab managed to bring it home with a safe 10 second lead in the end to finish in 29:01. Ben Bradley and Owen Hind were placed second and third respectively despite having the exact same finishing time of 29:11 and Charlie Hulson was right on their tails for fourth place in 29:14. Norwich’s Danni Nimmock was given a good race but took the win in 33:58 despite being chased home by clubmate Sarah Astin (34:12) and Southampton AC’s Laura Brenton (34:14).

Nick Goolab wins Chichester 10km credit: Elliot Hind

The undulating course of the Watford Half Marathon is always a good challenge and a favourite for those looking to test fitness in the earlier stages of their marathon buildups. After the race was cancelled in 2019 due to unsafe conditions on the course Paul Martelletti and Rachel Felton were both back to see if they could retain their crowns from 2018. It was not to be though and both were toppled by new challengers to the gold-spot. Martelletti was held off to second place by a 1:07:29 from Hercules Wimbledon’s Jonathan Cornish who looks to be having a rather promising start to 2020 after running a 10k PB just two weeks ago. Martelletti settled for runner up in 1:10:10 and Chris Oddy took third place in 1:10:57. Annabel Gummow of Winchester and District made her Watford Half debut with a winning 1:14:50, leaving Rachel Felton to take second in 1:18:10 and Sophie Delderfield took third in 1:19:59. Though not traditionally a PB course, that didn’t deter Harrow AC’s Lucy Ashe who took 4th in 1:21:02, a 2 minute 45 second best.

At the Serpentine RC Last Friday of the Month 5k their own runner Jonathan Poole held off a fast field to take the win in 14:57 and Herne Hill’s Julia Wedmore won the women’s race in 18:21.

A new month means also means the next race in the QEOP Winter 10k series and it was Sam Wardle (Horwich RMI) who took the February top spot in 33:31. In second place was Oliver Knight (St Albans Striders) in 35:18 and in third was Alex Douglas with 36:22. In the women’s race, St Alban’s Striders’ Katie Tebutt ran 36:24 for the win, followed by Cy Cano of Trent Park RC in 39:57 and Julia Grant in 40:19.

Youthful talent won out at the Ashford and District 10k as U20 Charlie Bisley charged home in 31:45. With a bit of an age difference, his nearest challenger was the V40 Adrian Musset who placed second in 33:11 and Harrison Tremain was third in 34:00. Laura Archer was first female in 43:16.

David Lee (34:34) and Natasha Mansell (36:57) won the Thorpe & Egham 10km and Manni Ovola (35:29) and Maria Bocanegra (38:54) won Regents Park 10k.

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As the decade drew to a close runners were out in force to end the 2010’s on a high and to hit the new year with a flying start.

McColgan & Moore bring in the new year in style

Across the pond the New York Road Runners held their 41st annual NYRR Midnight Run (4 miles) and the ladies race was truly one to remember, featuring names that have been very present in the running world over the last year.

Eilish McColgan absolutely blew the competition away. McColgan won in 20:50 bettering the previous record set by one Des Linden in 2010. Behind her was Mary Cain, the US athlete who bravely spoke out about her experience at the Nike Oregon Project and the damaging effect it had on her health and career. So, it was great to see Mary back on the podium, running a 21:43 for silver. Bronze went to USA’s Lindsay Crevoiserat in 23:20.

Kevin Moore of Ireland topped the men’s race in 19:48 with GB’s Benjamin Toomer snapping at his heels in 19:51 and Quentin Succo of France shortly behind in 19:58.

Eilish McColgan wins in NYC. Credit: NYRR

Nos Galen keeps the standards high

Also on New Year’s Eve, The Nos Galan Road Race celebrates the life and achievements of Welsh runner Guto Nyth Brân and has been going since 1958. A 5k race, it takes place around Mountain Ash Town Centre in the Cynon Valley and every year there’s a mystery celebrity runner. It’s a well supported race and one that the locals and the runners love, as evidenced by the fact that this year’s winner, Kris Jones was back for his 4th go at it. 14:15 was the time that gained the Swansea Harrier top spot this year, with a good lead over the 2-3 from Cardiff AAC of James Hunt (14:37) and Ciaran Lewis (14:41).

Issy Morris might train with the National Triathlon Performance Centre, but her road running is impressive in its own right. She ran a blistering 16:43, followed very closely by Anna Bracegirdle in 16:48. Lucy Marland of Cardiff AAC made sure her club didn’t go home without a podium spot in the women’s race either, running 17:02 for third. Nigel Owens MBE followed in the footsteps of Dave Bedford, Colin Jackson and Linford Christie to be this year’s mystery celebrity runner.

Matthew Neill & Hannah Oldroyd triumph at Lough 5

At the Lough 5, which started in 2009, runners run round the shores of Loughmacrory Lough in County Tyrone for 1.3 miles and then head out for the rest of the 5mile course. The lough-lap time is recorded as well as the overall finish. Rounding out his year with a winning moment, it was Matthew Neill (Acorns AC) who ran a 5:56 lap of the Lough and overall time of 25:00.5 to take the crown and put himself 4th on the all-time list for the race.

Right behind him was Eoin Mullan (Omagh Harriers) who lapped the Lough in 5:58, finished in 25:03.7 and goes 5th on the all-time. In third was Eoin Hughes also of Acorns AC who ran a 6:27 loop and a 26:05.5 to nab 9th all-time.

Hannah Oldroyd was back from her normal New Zealand racing-turf and ensured a triumphant arrival to NI with her winning time of 29:58.4 (7:09 lough-lap). In second was Natalie Hall of Armagh AC with a 7:38 and 30:46.3. Finn Valley AC’s Cassie Lagan had the silver spot coming off the lough-loop in 7:35 but lost a little time in the latter stages of the race to finish third in 31:14.1

Hannah Oldroyd. Credit: Lough 5

A busy start to the year on the roads

The aftermath of Hogmanay was not enough to put off those racing the Portabello Promathon in Tumbles, Ediburgh on New Year’s Day. Grant Sheldon of Cambuslang Harriers raced round the 4 mile course in 18:46 for the win, with Corstorphine AAC taking the remaining gongs thanks to Tom Martyn (18:46) and Ewan Brown (19:34).

For Annabel Simpson and Fife AC the year got off to an excellent start, as she won the women’s race in 21:30. Jill Stephen of Hunters Bog Trotters finished second in 22:39 and Chloe Cox of Edinburgh AC was third in 22:57.

It’s always nice to start a decade with a PB, so you’d think that the lure of an unusual distance like 10.55km (6.55m) was the draw for many runners at The Junction Broadstone 1/4 Marathon. Not so for Winner Chris Alborough of Poole AC who has raced the distance twice previously. He upgraded his silver spot from last year to take the win and a PB in 35:45. Jacek Cieluszecki of Bournemouth AC was second in 35:58 and Ben Renshaw of Bridport Runners was third in 36:04.

Women’s winner Emma Caplan (Bournemouth AC) is also no stranger to the distance or indeed the course, though her 41:00 victory couldn’t quite snag her a PB. Next on the podium was Juliet Champion (41:24), followed by Helen O’Neile in 42:10.

2020 started well for Annaka Charters of VP&TH who kicked off the year with a winning turn at the Lamberhurst New Year’s Day trail 10k round Bewl Water. Annaka raced home in 39:48 ahead of Tina Oldershaw (Tonbridge AC, 41:38) and Lorna Watts (Hastings AC, 42:39). Look out for more from Annake a bit further down. In the men’s race it was Jason Baker who made a victorious start to the decade in 34:53. Esmond Brown followed him in 26:06 and Stephen Walker of Beverly Athletic Club was 3rd in 36:54

Wye Valley Runners joined the NYD fun with their New Year’s Day 10k. Charlie Jones (Cheltenham and County Harriers) was first home in 34:10. Hertford Couriers’ Barry Reynolds brought home silver for the V45s in 34:27 and Brychan Price-Davies of Hereford Couriers was third in 34:50. For the ladies, Brecon Athletic club can thank Donna Morris for a gold-tinged start to their year thanks to her 41:58 run. The host club followed up that with a 42:28 from Jodie Newell and Hereford Couriers’ Naomi Prosser was third in 43:03

Serpentine AC also organised their own first-of-Jan NYD 10km jaunt and it was Charlie Sandison who had the honour of breaking the tape in 31:51. Jonathan Bradford was second in 32:01 and Harry Tullet took third in a PB of 32:27.

Emma Pallant was first lady in 34:47 a few days after her success at the Clevedon Boxing Day race, Rose Penfold second in 36:41 and Melissah Gibson third in 36:51.

Actin from the roads this weekend

After all that 01/01 fun, surely it was time for a rest? Don’t be daft! We all know runners love a double park run or multi-race week. So, it’s not surprising but nevertheless delightful to report that Annaka Charters was back out in winning form just a few days later at the Run Through Victoria Park 5k. She finished first overall in a time of 19:04, 4 seconds ahead of the male winner Dimitrios Mavridis who ran 19:08.

In the 10k edition of the race is was VP&TH’s Andre Adhkamp who took the win in 35:50 and Megan Cleary in 39:08. The Half Marathon distance had a swift field of pavement-pounders who were clearly out to show 2020 what’s what. The men’s podium all finished in under 75 minutes. Michael Hughes (also VP&TH) seems to have set a rather chunky HM PB with his 1:14:16 and was followed home by Matt Chipping in 1:14:47 and Alex Sweet in 1:14:51. For the women, it was Clapham Chasers’ membership secretary Cathryn Rees who broke the tape in 1:19:21. Harriet Freeman was a safe distance behind in 1:23:22 and Florence Beard finished in 1:27:33 for third.

On Sunday, the Stoke Stampede weaved its undulating figure of 8 10k route around Stoke St Gregory. First back to the village square (and maybe the pub) was Ian Tyson (V40 Torbay Tri Club) in 33:58. Kieron Summers (also V40) of Weston Athletic Club was just a few sips behind in 34:13, while Kevin Woodward was close enough to grab the pint from his hand, finishing in 34:19. Taunton AC’s Hannah Taunton was a clear winner with a brilliant run of 35:32 leaving her with a very comfortable margin ahead of Joanna Carrit (41:03) and Caroline Norris (41:13)

The 10ks continued around the country. At the Cleethorpes 10k Lucian Allison dove under the 30 minute mark to obliterate his competition with his finishing time of 29:40 in a welcome return to racing for the England man. Finley Thompson could only follow in the distance despite a very healthy pace which ran him a 32:52 for second, equally comfortably ahead of Caleb Stephenson in 34:10. The women’s winners all went sub-40. Leading them back was Gerogina Weston in 36:42, 2 minutes clear of Beth Taylor (38:42) and Carolyn Hary (38:57).

At Battersea Park 10km Ralph Collet was the one showing everyone how to tame the distance, being first back to the legendary RunThough flapjack in 34:01. Cleola Roscoe placed second in 34:32 and Damian Spreckley third in 34:47. Racheal Doran was the only woman to break 40, running 38:46 for her win. Over the 5k, Cyn Cano ran 19:17 and Will Adolphy 16:33 for their top spots.

As this roving, but not running (today) reporter drove past regents park this morning I witnessed hoards of runners taking part in The Mornington Chasers Winter 10k. Hardy souls braving a damp, grey morning, they deserve a mention! John Kourpas took the win in 34:30 ahead of Alex Webb (35:23) and Jon Phillips (35:37). Holly Thompson was a dominant women’s winner in 36:09 ahead of Emma Macalister Hall (37:44) and Kasturi Shah (43:34).

In Spain at the Cursa Dels Nassos 10k (Barcelona) a handful of Brits were action. It proved a successful bit of run-tourism as the majority of the gents came home with nice new PB’s to their names – Elliot Richards of Cardiff AC placed 34th in 31:22 (PB). Matt Sharp (Hercules Wimbledon) ran 32:15 for 56th place, Carl Stainton (Warely Woods Pacers) came home in 34:09(PB). Sue Exon of Trafford was the only female and ran a creditable 51:29 for her V65 category and a season’s best.

At San Silvestre Vallecana (Madrid) Ana Maria Duran-Mingo of Bristol & West finished in 38:45, Tsz Sum Fung (Sheffield & Dearne) ran a PB of 38:44. At San Silvestre Luarquesa (Luarca) Roger Farrington, V55 from Maldwyn, joined the Spanish PB train with his 18:12.

A weekend of cross country championship action

As training schedules resume and new year’s resolutions get a push start from the racing calendar on the roads we could go on forever with a whole host of results, but we’ll pause there because Cross Country demands our attention. We don’t want to lose you before you’ve heard about the storming efforts of those who donned their spikes for various county championships this weekend.

At the Essex County Champs Jess Judd took gold(Blackburn Harrriers) and our own Hannah Irwin (Braintree and District) nabbed silver – we’re excited for your year ahead Hannah! Liz Davies (Springfield Striders) placed third. Southend AC’s Adam Hickey was home first for the men, followed by Francis Conway of Orion Harriers and James Conner of Havering AC.

Northamptonshire County Champs winners were Joshua Lay for Rugby & Northampton and Helen Heley for Silson. At the Cheshire County Champs Dan Cliffe broke the tape for Liverpool Harriers. Gloucestershire was a winner for Kaitlyn Shepphard, representing Cheltenham over the SW 6.5k course and Gloucesters’ James Denne ran a 5s lead over Ben Price to take gold in the men’s 10k distance.

Nick Goolab. Credit: leonardmartin.photo

At the delightfully named Wormwood Scrubs venue, the Middlesex County Champs were a taxing 12k for the Senior men, but past English Junior XC winner Nick Goolab (Belgrave Harriers) laughed in the face of the relentless flat, boggy course and ran nearly a minute faster than his closest rival, Alex Lepretre (Highgate Harriers).

The women’s 8k course was won by Gintare Juknyte of AF&D… but only just one second ahead of Anna Hollingsworth (Serpentine). I’ll use this chance to give a sneaky shout out to the Harrow AC team (my home club) and in particular Lucy Ashe who placed 6th – a fantastic start to the year. We’re waiting on full results for the Hampshire , Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire Champs.

On a different type of terrain, the Scottish 3000m championships took place on Friday. In a field where the top 7 set PB’s it was James McMurray of St Albans Striders who grabbed gold in 8:00.38 ahead of Stephen Mackay (Glasgow City 8:13.19) and James Donald (Dundee Hawkhill 8:14.88).

The women’s race was similarly PB-stacked and won by Dorottya Csuta (Central) in 9:42.96. Holly Little (Victoria Park City of Glasgow) was second in 9:47.93) and Hannah Anderson (East Kilbride) was third in 9:52.57.

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Scott and Judd lead home a fantastic field at Ribble Valley

It was the Ribble Valley 10k that was the highlight of the end of the year period with some very speedy performances across the board from some high class athletes. The race also incorporated the Northern 10k road championships.

The event saw 12 men run under 30 minutes and 9 women go under the 35-minute mark. It was Jess Judd and Marc Scott who secured the titles at this years. After coming second to Beth Potter at last years’ event, Judd proved her strength and improved her position. Judd was first woman to cross the line in an impressive 32:17, a huge 25 second road personal best.

This places her 6th on the women’s UK 10k rankings, one place behind Charlotte Purdue. Judd was followed by Rachael Franklin (Manx) who had a huge race to take just under 90s off her lifetime best over the 10k distance. Franklin ran a fantastic 33:24, just 3 seconds ahead of third place. Claiming the bronze medal was Cambridge and Coleridge’s Holly Archer in her first 10k of the year. Archer ended her year on a high with a 58 second PB! A solid year for Archer!

For the men, the top three all came home in under 29-minutes. Marc Scott stole the show in the men’s race with yet another PB at the event. Scott knocked 25 seconds off his previous road best time with a finishing time of 28:32. Scott has also recently moved club to Cambridge & Coleridge; a good day out for C&C!

It was triathlete and Leicester AC athlete, Ben Dijkstra who came in second in 28:53 in his 10k debut. Rounding off the men’s podium, also in his 10k debut, was Charlie Da’Vall Grice (Brighton Phoenix). Da’Vall Grice ran a very strong 28:54 – quality winter work for the 1500m man.

10k PB’s for the two of us, and Bruce slept through the whole thing 29:45 and 32:17 on what we hope this time is an official 10k, and in proper old school trainers #adidas worth the 7hour drive in the end and grateful to end the year with a PB after a lovely christmas pic.twitter.com/K98dDeP8Ek

— Jess Judd (@jessjuddxx) December 29, 2019

Superb Sesemann in Paris as 5 Brits run sub 29

The Corrida des Houilles is one of Europe’s fastest 10km races. Daniel Ebenyo clocked 27:12 to win this afternoon but in 8th place was Phillip Sesemann in a stunning 28:24 taking over 30 seconds off his PB. Another four Brits ran sub 29 – Emilie Cairess 17th (29 second PB for 28:38), Ben Connor 18th (19 second PB – 28:37), Josh Griffiths 19th (16 second PB – 28:41) and Kieran Clements 24th (23 second PB – 28:52). Matt Bergin crossed the line 37th in 29:29 and James Hunt 58th in 30:30. Norah Jeruto won the women’s race in 30:31 with Charlotte Taylor-Green 22nd in 35:22.

The race attracts top African and European talent with a separate elite race taking place after the mass race earlier in the day. The gently undulating course over laps of the Paris suburb was the location for Julian Wanders European 10km record.

Pallant & McGrath win Clevedon Boxing Day Race

The four mile Clevedon Boxing Day Race always sees a highly competitive field with clubs in Bristol and Cardiff always turning out good numbers. There was an excellent depth in this year’s race again with Bristol & West’s Felix McGrath taking the win in 20:51 ahead of team mate Andrew Chambers (21:02) and North Somerset AC man James Rodgers third in 21:35.

World Junior 1500m medallist Emma Pallant is one of the top triathletes in the world and is a two time world elite duathlon champion. Pallant has a proud winning record at this race and claimed the title again this year in 23:07. She was challenged all the way to the line a high quality women’s field with Bristol & West’s Stephanie Barnes (23:16) 2nd and 2:31 marathoner Jenny Spink 3rd (23:19).

Emma Pallant saw off a high quality filed to win again. Credit: www.garyclark.photography

A busy week for Jamaal

The Serpentine Last Friday of the Month 5k saw 34 athletes run under the 18-minute mark. The winning time was set by Seyfu Jamaal of London Heathside in 14:42. After a year of considerable racing, Jamaal set a personal best over the distance, ending his season on a high. It is astounding to note that Jamaal ran identical 15:08 parkrun’s either side of the race on Christmas Day and the Saturday after the race! Club mate Jem O’Flaherty ran himself to a second place finish in 15:11, a 17 second lifetime best for the distance. Coming in third for Bideford AAC was Jack Hutchens in 15:25.

The top three women also came in with speedy times, all under 19-minutes. Melissah Gibson of Ealing Eagles ran herself to a gold medal in 17:54, a huge 90s PB. Sarah Hanley was 2nd in 17:56 with 18:10 for April James-Welsh of South London Harriers in 3rd ahead of Megan De Silva (Ranelagh Harriers) who crossed the line in 18:26.

Annabel Simpson & Jamie Crowe set quick times at Tilli 10km

The Tilli 10k also took place this weekend. The majority of the race follows the Devon Way before peeling off for a 1km loop and then rejoining the Way and heading towards the finish. This year saw a high quality field turn out with two sub-30 minute times.

It was Lamar University athlete, Jamie Crowe, that took home the gold. After an impressive 8th place finish at the Liverpool Euro Trials at Sefton Park, Crowe proved his quality on the roads too. He crossed the line in a blistering time of 29:19, a huge 24 second personal best. In second place was Grant Sheldon of Cambuslang in another impressively quick time of 29:49. Sheldon set his personal back earlier in the year at the Scottish 10k champs where he finished second. Rounding off the men’s podium was Alastair Hay, shortly behind Sheldon in 31:00.

There was also some very high quality running in the women’s race with the top three finishers all dipping under the 37-minute mark. U23 Glasgow Uni athlete, Annabel Simpson, ran a strong race to earn herself the win in a cracking time of 34:56, just 14 seconds off her personal best. Just 10 seconds behind Simpson in 35:06 was Fiona Brian (Metro Aberdeen). Brian boasts an impressive 2:42:51 personal best over the marathon distance. The third female finisher was Claire Bruce (Metro Aberdeen) in 36:38, her best time of 2019.

Great morning at the brilliant Tilli 10k! Big thanks to @phracingclub for putting on a really slick 10k! Top event

Wins for @Jamescrowe7 in a super fast 29:20* and @belliesimpson in 34:55*. TRS well represented with both of us + wives + plenty listeners out in force!

*TBC pic.twitter.com/mNb8BVfKgh

— Tartan Running Shorts (@Tartanshorts) December 28, 2019

Boxing Day also saw the Round the Lakes 10k in Poole. Despite extremely windy conditions, athletes did not fail to give strong performances. William Bryan of Southampton Athletics Club was first over the line in a cracking time of 32:14. Bryan was closely followed by Thames Valley’s Dan Mulryan in 32:30. Rounding off the podium with yet another Southampton athlete was Sam Costley in 32:39, not far off his personal best time for this year.

The women’s race win went to Juliet Champion of Poole AC in a strong 40:26. The following two positions were secured by Caroline Stanzel (Poole AC) and Karen Rushton (Winchester AC) respectively.

The hilly multi-terrain seven mile Chevin Chase is always a popular race with a strong field. Sale Harriers’ Hannah Brown put in a very strong display to win in 46:22 nearly two minutes clear of second placed Becky Penty (48:19) with Salford Harrier Ruth Jones third in 48:58.

Ilkley Harriers dominated the men’s race taking the top four spots with Jack Wood the overall winner (38:55) ahead of team mates Nathan Edmondson (39:09) and Jack Cummings (39:18).

Rounding up the roads

The Brocagh Bay 10km also saw the winner take home the gold with a clear lead. Colin Heron ran himself to victory in a time of 32:41. It was the top two women who had storming races for Armagh AC, finishing 3rd and 4th overall. Danielle Fegan ran herself to the overall bronze medal and was the first female finisher in a time of 35:55 in her first and last 10k of 2019. Fegan was followed by club mate Natalie Hall, in 37:43.

There were also some speedy performances over other 5k races. The Brocagh Bay 5km saw Loughview AC’s Ethan Dunn take home the gold medal with a time of 16:40. Elaine McGuckin was the winner of the women’s race in 18:29 in her 5k debut.

The Cavan 5k was won by Ben Brunton with a strong time of 15:46. Niall Smith was next across the line in 16:44 and Shane McCaul was third in 17:12. Catriona Mullen had an absolutely storming race to finish in third place overall. She stopped the clock at 17:07. Irish marathon legend Catriona McKiernan claimed the second place finish in 17:46 and Rachel Birt completed the top three in 18:28.

At the hilly Leyland Boxing Day 10km Carmel Edwards (39:11) took the win ahead of Victoria Park Harrier Annaka Charters (40:23) and Alice Alcock (40:37). The overall winner was Christopher Richards (32:16) well clear of Richard Burney (34:23) and Chris Wright (35:21).

In keeping with the festivities was the Ayrodynamic Turkey Trot 5k. The top three male finishers were all U17 athletes putting in excellent performances. Reuben MacDonald (Giffnock North) ran an impressive race to finish first in his 5k debut. He clocked a time of 16:21, 9 seconds ahead of Cameron Green (16:30). The third place finish went to Jonathon Downey in 17:14, also in his 5k debut. It was Hannah Terrance who secured the win for the ladies. Terrance knocked a whole 2 minutes off her lifetime best set back in 2010. Under 15 Iona Stroma Hubbard was second in 20:14 with Morven Hubbard 3rd in 20:28.

The Turkey Trot also saw a 10km race taking place. In a run that was definitely more than a trot, Alasdair Campbell took home the winning title in a time of 31:44. Campbell was followed by Greg Templeton in a solid 33:24 and Colin Whitby in 33:27.

First woman across the finish line, with a time of 39:09, was Jill Smylie of Giffnock North. Next was Amy Vincent of Edinburgh AC, in an impressive PB time of 39:53. Completing the women’s top three was Lucinda Beresford (Westerlands Cross Country Club) in 40:06.

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GB senior teams dominate Euro XC

Andy Butchart led the men’s team to a golden victory over their 10k course at the European Cross Country Championships this weekend. Butchart placed 5th and was joined in the three-to-score spots by trials winner Ben Connor who snuck his way into the top ten to place 9th and Kristian Jones who secured the top podium placing by finishing 22nd. Patrick Dever ran to 26th, team captain Adam Hickey 36th and Tom Evans 44th. Belgium took team silver and Spain bronze. Robel Fsiha of Sweden won the individual men’s race.

After a long wait watching all the other races, an experienced team of Senior ladies hit the 8k course in Libson, Portugal. Reigning champion Yasemin Can of Turkey dominated from the start and kept her individual title but convincingly bringing it home for Britain were Jess Judd in 6th, Charlotte Arter in 7th and a standout performance from Abbie Donnely in 13th. Amy Griffiths took 15th, Jenny Nesbitt 29th and Kate Avery 30th.

Ireland’s Fionnuala McCormack, who has been eating XC for breakfast for 16 years, ran a great race showing confidence by holding back early on and then powering up the hills in the latter stages. Sadly she couldn’t quite catch Sweden’s Samrawit Mengsteab on the final straight through and leaves Lisbon with a 4th place. She does however take home a sliver team medal.

In the mixed relay GB bagged another Gold thanks to the sterling efforts of Sarah McDonald, James McMurray, Alex Bell and Jonny Davies who brought it home in the anchor leg.

Hardest race I’ve ever done! Makes it all worthwhile finishing 6th individually and 1st team, especially with my lovely roomie who is probably the nicest person you’ll ever meet! Extremely grateful to share this experience with such a lovely team! pic.twitter.com/o1emW94kU0

— Jess Judd (@jessjuddxx) December 8, 2019

3rd and 4th for UK u/23 teams

Bronwen Owen ran her first U23 XC for her country and held on brilliantly for a 7th place despite the tough course sapping her energy with a lap still to go. Owen led home the rest of the U23 ladies to a bronze team medal with Amelia Quirk taking 15th, Poppy Tank 18th, Hannah Nuttall 31st and Eleanor Bolton 33rd.

Mahamed Mahamed has plenty of experience in the U23’s and was up for a fight, pushing hard and getting himself into third for some of the race. He was disappointed with an eventual 8th place finish but can claim top GB runner in his category. The U23 gents placed 4th in the team rankings with Alex Yee in 12th, Sol Sweeney 29th, Euan Makepeace 56th and Emile Cairness 60th.

Golden trip for the u/20s

In the U20s women’s race the team rankings were as much of a roller-coaster as the undulating course as Italy and GB tied for first place, with Italy initially announced as having taken the Gold only to have that changed to give GB the top-bling. That decision was made because Britain’s 6,11,12 placings were better than Italy’s 1,3,15.

Kicking off proceedings the U20 GB lads set the team-gold tone for the day thanks to a convincing 13 point margain to take yet another team-gold ahead of Norway (including one rather well known Jakob Ingebrigtsen who romped home to his 4th solo title) and Ireland. Charlie Hicks had a fantastic race to finish 5th, Matt Willis was 9th and Zak Mahamed 11th. For the rest of the team Will Barnicoat ran home in 22nd, Hamish Armitt 31st and Matthew Stonier 72nd.

Ockenden runs 3rd fastest 5000m indoors

Verity Ockenden moved to 3rd on the AT UK indoor 5000m rankings as the Tony Houchin coached athlete clocked 15:34 at the Sharon Colyear-Danville meet at Boston University in the US.

Craig and Harrison lead home deep fields at Telford 10km

Back in the UK and on the roads there was one race that dominated the racing this weekend. The Telford 10k was a riot of talent with 159 runners sub 35 in the men’s race and 56 women sub 38. Samantha Harrison of Notts AC led home the women in 32:33 (PB 33:29) followed closely by Dani Chattenton of the MK Distance Project who updated a rather old 10k PB by over 10 minutes to 32:37. Third place went to Welsh athlete Clara Evans in 33:08, also a PB. With times that would normally secure you a podium spot, AFD’s Lauren Hall had to settle for 4th and a PB in 33:16 and City of Stoke’s Kate Holt 33:18 gained her 5th place – not bad for your first recorded 10k!

Back from his win in Ireland at the Bobby Rea International Cross Country, Adam Craig gave his coach Steve Vernon an early Christmas present in the form of a number one spot and 30 second PB. He broke the tape in 28:31. Birchfield Harriers’ Omar Ahmed was second in another PB of 28:38 and third place went to Serpentine’s Callan Moody in 28:56 (PB). Jack Gray was 4th with a fine 28:57 with Welsh marathoner Josh Griffiths 5th also in 28:57 (PB).

The sheer depth of field leaves us wanting to spend all day on these results but we have to stop somewhere so if you want to go and marvel for yourself, check out the full results here. There were some particularly impressive results for masters athletes notably V45 Will Green (30:31) and V55 Claire Elms (36:54).

 

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PB and the win for @adamcraig95 today at the #Telford10km #TeamNB

A post shared by New Balance Manchester (@teamnbmcr) on Dec 8, 2019 at 5:36am PST

Busy weekend of domestic XC action

Many Cross Country leagues held their final races before Christmas. Full results and links to pending results are below, where possible.

Horspath, Oxford may not sound quite as glam as Lisbon but there was an equal amount of grit on show there at the SEAA County Cross Country Inter Counties Championships. Essex’s Elisabeth Davies (22:21) led the women home, followed by Lily Coward (22:40) for Kent AC and Rachel Wiseman (22:53) took third to cement Essex’s team win.

In the Liverpool and District League Ross Harrison of Liverpool Pembroke & Sefton AC was first home in the Senior Men’s race. The women’s results are tbc. At London’s Met League match the river crossing proved no barrier to the win for Herts Phoenix runner Elizabeth Janes or Dylan Evans of Shaftsbury Barnet Harriers both of who claimed victory in their Senior races. Michael Ward (Uni of Birmingham) was winner in the Birmingham League but again, women’s results are tbc.

British athletes shine in the Caribbean

Run Barbados was hosting a range of events this weekend from 1 mile to 26.2 of them and two UK ladies have been making their mark. Sarah Inglis came first in the mile race in 5:01, Natasha Wodak won the 10k in 36:09 with Inglis second in 36:20 and both ladies were due to run the half marathon this morning. Inglis has won two years in a row and will be looking to retain her title – results tbc. The Reggae Marathon in Jamaica was won by Ros Ponder, time TBC.

 

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Yup. Just won the Jamaican marathon! (giant trophy for overall winner, additional little trophy for being so old) A relentless course in boiling conditions with no marathon training in my legs… but nothing like a bit of reggae and the world’s friendliest people to keep you going. #onelove #jamaica #reggaemarathon #marathon

A post shared by Ros Ponder (@ros_ponder) on Dec 8, 2019 at 7:54am PST

Festive fun on the UK roads

The Milton Keynes Winter Half saw a convincing win for under 20 Heathside athlete Seyfu Jamaal in 66:05 with the winning woman Johanna Sharples running 83:53. The men’s podium was completed by Edward Mallett (70:39) and Ryan Hogan (74:17). 2nd and 3rd in the women’s race were claimed by Ginevra Stoneley (85:01) and Olympian Claire Hallissey (85:23).

Lancaster AC hosted their Power of 5k race and Matthew Crehan posted an impressive 14:38 to take the win ahead of Karl Billington (15:34) and Reuben Copley (15:40). Layla Foley was the winning woman in 17:55 ahead of Jade Smith (18:24) and Suzanne Smith (20:25)

The Andy Reading 10km was won by Alex Miell-Ingram in 33:08 ahead of Ben Kruze (33:35) and Stephen Herring (35:08). The top three women were Rebecca Duxbury (37:30), Helen Mulhall (39:37), Becky Hodgson (41:10).

The Osterley Park Winter 10km saw Tim Lawrence claim a narrow win in 34:23 edging out Joe Gomes who clocked 34:26 with George Bailey 3rd in 35:11. Emma MacAlister-Hall was the winning woman in 38:18 ahead of Rachael Turner (42:01) and Magdalena Walbaum (42:17).

At the Willowbrook Halewood 5K Series Thomas Boardman of Leigh harriers won in 15:57 and Louise Jackson of host club Knowsley Harriers finished first for the ladies in 19:31. At the Beccles Turkey Trot 10 Matthew Jeffries (Waveney Valley AC) trotted his way home to first place running 10 miles in 54:47 with a 4 minute lead on his nearest rival. Waveney took top sport in the women’s race too thanks to Samantha Jacks running 1:03:29.

Also getting festive was Robert Spencer (32:07) and Diane Leggot (40:57) with their Christchurch Christmas 10k win and the ever popular Mince Pie 10 mile trail race was won by James Baker in 55:14 and Tara Shanahan in 1:06:43.

Full XC League Results

Chiltern League
Met League
Liverpool and District League
Manchester Area League
Birmingham League
Midland’s Women’s League
North Midland’s League
Gwent League
CC6 League
East Yorkshire League
North Yorkshire & South Durham League
Southern League

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The post Fantastic field at Telford and action from the Euro XC – weekend roundup appeared first on Fast Running.

This weekend was quite possibly one of the biggest weekends in the marathon calendar. Many athletes fled to Valencia in search of quick times, and in some cases, Olympic qualifying times, at one of the quickest marathons in the world and an IAAF Gold Label event, The Valencia Marathon.

The women’s race was stacked with competition as the GB women came out in full force. It was Clapham Chaser’s Steph Davis that had the race of her life, finishing a fantastic 13^th in the women’s elite field in 2:27:40. Davis smashed the Olympic qualifying time by nearly 2 minutes, putting herself in contention for those three marathon spots at Tokyo.

“’The focus was to have a fun run in the sun.” said the marathoner, “I felt in good shape and hoped to PB but did not expect to run that time at all! It’s still sinking in!’. Hopefully you’re still smiling for a long while with that one Steph. 

Steph Davis at 25km. Photo: Tom Craggs

Second brit across the line in 19^th place, after pulling out in Frankfurt, was Hayley Carruthers. Carruthers secured herself a marathon personal best of 2:32:42, improving on her time from the London Marathon back in April. Shortly behind Carruthers in 21^st position with a cracking time of 2:33:24 was Preston’s Eleanor Davis. After a strong year with personal bests over road 3k, 10k, and half marathon, Davis now adds a marathon best for the year.

Fourth Brit with yet another strong performance in Valencia was Elinor Kirk. Kirk secured herself a finishing time of 2:34:36, a PB by just under 2-minutes! With yet another impressive performance over the marathon distance was Georgina Schwiening (Cambridge Runners) with a time of 2:35:22, another PB of the day by over 2 minutes. 

Shortly behind Schwiening in 29^th place was Emma Mitchell with a strong 2:36:47. The Northern Irish athlete made her debut performance in the event and proved her strength after an impressive run at the Valencia Half in October. Unfortunately, after a tough year battling against injury, Lily Partridge pulled out at around the 25km mark after having gone through half way in 74:09. 

Fast running’s own marathoner, Gill Bland also headed to Valencia to complete the 26.2-mile distance. After a tough race, Bland had a strong finish and crossed the line in 2:55:31. 

Olympic qualifying time for Pollock

The men’s race did not disappoint either with some speedy marathon times secured. There was an outstanding run from Paul Pollock with an impressive Olympic qualifying time of 2:10:25. This will not be Pollock’s first Olympics after he finished 32^nd in Rio.

Liverpool athlete, Charlie Hulson had a strong debut performance crossing the line in 40^th position with a time of 2:14:23. Just 16 seconds behind Hulson was Andrew Davies with a lifetime best and UK40 record of 2:14:46, a 25 second best time.

Ben Johnson also gave a big PB performance after just missing sub 2:20 in London to finish with a time of 2:17:34. Other men contributing to the strong British and Irish field were Gary O’hanlon (2:20:07), Lloyd Biddell (2:20:49), Kev Quinn (2:22:12), Karl Welborn (2:22:57), Ben Shearer (2:23:23), Jo Turner (2:23:37), Paul Piper (2:23:43), George King (2:24:00), and Nick Bowker (2:24:16). 

Charlie Hulson with a fine debut. Credit: Tom Craggs

Barlow finishes 3rd in the 10km

The men’s world record fell in the Valencia 10km with Joshua Cheptegei running a stunning 26:38. Josh Grace (AFD) had a PB run, securing himself an 8^th place finish in a rapid time of 28:59! Tom Craggs coached athlete, Tracy Barlow had a powerful race, securing herself a 3^rd place finish over the 10k-distance with a time of 33:44. Some confusion with chips means we don’t have the full rankings just yet.

Fast 10k running at home too

At another 10k event, the Wesham 10k, athletes took to the roads in the North West over a slightly undulating course, running around the lanes of Salwick and Lea Town.

The winner of the entire event was Chris Livesey of Salford Harriers in 31:54, just eight seconds outside of his seasons best. Next was Wesham Road Runner, Robert Danson, in 32:03, followed by Matthew Laior (Ribble Valley Harriers) in 32:44. For the women it was Toni McIntosh (Ayr Seaforth) who ran a strong race to finish first, clocking 37:13. Second place went to Catherine Carrdus (Lytham St Annes) in 40:46 followed by Sue Coulthurst.

Wesham 10km. Credit: Dave Biggs

At another of the Sri Chimnoy London Marathon Events race was the Grizzly Bear 10k. These races provide yet another opportunity for athletes in search of pure racing without all the added extras. Podium finishers are presented with a piece of fruit and cereal bar, proving it is all about the element of racing in a fast environment.

All of the top three women came across the road in under 39 minutes. The winning fruit went to Rebecca Piggott of London Heathside who ran a solid 36:19, a 25-second personal best. Second female home in a time of 38:08 was Matilde Lomba and in third was Evangelista Divetain (London Heathside) in 38:20. 

In the men’s race it was Alix Ramsie who landed himself the top place on the podium. Ramsie of South London Harriers crossed the line in 32:28 in what was a close race. Only 4 seconds later, Tom Goulding of Birtley AC finished the race. It was Serpentine Andrea Fraquelli who rounded off the men’s podium with a finishing time of 32:36. Impressive running! 

British Ultra running in good health

Over the much larger 100km distance, the 100km Ultra Trail Cape Town race occurred. Salomon runner Beth Pascall secured herself an impressive win with an even more impressive top 10 overall finish. A sub 11 hour finish, less than an hour behind US men’s winner Cody Reed, meant a course record for the medic, who caps off an excellent 2019 that included top five positions at Western States and the UTMB. 

Over the impressive 300km distance, the Algarviana Ultra Trail race took place in Portugal. Paul Giblin was the well-deserved winner and beat the previous record by around three hours with a time of 38 hours and 6 minutes.

Paul Giblin training in the Swiss Alps in 2018. Photo: Robbie Britton

The modest athlete was taken outside of his mountainous comfort zone and tested with some flatter patches of running but did not disappoint. Despite stomach problems early on he kept relaxed and had an incredible race. 

It was Scotland-based athlete, Patricia De Carvalho, who was the winner of the women’s race in her 3^rd time doing the event. Carvalho finished in a time of 64 hours 47 minutes.

High standards at Podium 5k as usual

Over the shorter, but speedier 5k distance was the Podium 5k road race. The podium race’s offer the perfect, true racing experience without the added frills, but with a tried and tested fast course. The podium 5k race series is the perfect opportunity for athletes to test their fitness and chase after PB times.

This weekend’s runners were faced with chilly, yet speedy conditions. It was Andy Smith who was first male across the line in a rapid 14:52 for Pudsey & Bramley AC. In a close finish it was Matthew Crehan (St Helens & Sutton) who landed the silver medal in 14:54. Preston Harriers’ Kian Davis took the bronze medal position in 15:08. 

Ciara Mageean (Team NB Mcr), European Bronze medalist in 2016 and 2019, did the women proud with a speedy, sub-16, 15:48 finishing time. The second female finisher with a time of 16:52 from Manchester Harriers was Rachael Franklin. Completing the top three women was Leeds City’s Alice Leake in 17:25. 

Andy Smith & Ciara Meagaan Photo: Podium 5k Twitter.

Also over the 5km distance was the Croft Circuit 5km. It was North Belfast Harrier’s Andrew Milligan who was the first male to cross the line in 15:06. The U23 athlete ran himself to an impressive 21 second personal best. Closely behind Milligan in 15:20 was Joe Armstrong of Morpeth Harriers & AC, another U23 athlete. Completing the top 3 male finishing positions was David Green in an extremely close 15:23. The race boasted a total of 6 men running under 16-minutes.

Following on from an impressive win for England at the Rennes 10k last month, Danielle Hodgkinson of Wallsend ran a cracking 16.30 for a first-place finish for the women and an incredible 11^th overall. Second woman across the finish line was Gateshead Harriers & AC’s Gillian Manford in 18:08 followed by Georgia Campbell in 18:09. A very close race! 

73rd year for Victory 5 miler

In its 73^rd year was the Victory 5-mile race. Matt Bergin landed himself the win in a time of 23:40, a close 5-seconds outside of his personal best. In second place was U20 athlete, Henry McLuckie with a time of 24:18 for his first ever 5-mile race. Third place was secured by Joe Wade in 24:31. 

The winner for the women was Tonbridge AC’s Lucy Reid. Reid matched her personal best of 27:05 exactly. Following shortly was Maisie Trafford of Arena 80 in 27:35. The final woman on the podium was AFD’s Emily Wicks in 28:02 who came 65^th in the World Cross Country Championships back in 2013. 

Over the 5-mile distance again, but this time through the mud, was the Midlands 5-mile cross country championships. It was Gemma Steel who took home gold for the women. We’ll include more results if we can find them.

Festive marathoning in Nottingham

Also over the marathon distance this weekend, was the Nottingham Christmas Marathon. The overall win went to Loughborough Student, James Ford, in a finishing time of 2:42:37. The second finisher was Ben Harris of Retford AC in 2:44:16.

An impressive third overall and first woman was Johanna O’Regan of St Neots Riverside Runners in 2:45:24, just 3-minutes outside of her lifetime best set earlier this year in Manchester. It was fellow clubmate Caroline Brooks who secured herself the silver woman’s medal in 2:49:32, in a solid 5^th place overall. 

As part of the same event was the shorter distance 10k race. Euan Wilson ran an impressive race, finishing in a time of 33:07 for first place. 1^st female finisher, in third place overall was Johanna Gurney. Gurney stopped the clock on 34:24. 

The RunThrough Lee Valley Velo Park Race saw athletes race over various distances including that of 10-miles. Victory for the men went to Stephen Fabes in 57:44 and it was Sally Svenlen who ran herself to the top of the women’s podium in 1:12:09. In the half marathon event, Ben Toye secured himself the gold medal in 1:15:41 whereas Katie Brown obtained the woman’s first-place finishing position in 1:23:52. 

There were some extremely noteworthy performances in the mud as well as on the road. In the Alton Sports Hampshire Cross Country League, Aldershot & Farnham District AC dominated the men’s race, however it was Reading AC that secured the women’s team gold. Jess Gibbon ran a storming race to secure herself the position at the top of the podium with a 32-second lead followed by AFD’s own Steph Twell. Third through the mud was Annabel Gummow of Winchester. The men’s results are yet to be uploaded. 

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The post 10k WR & marathoners shine in the sun in Valencia – weekend roundup appeared first on Fast Running.

Piasecki wins Florence Marathon to move 3rd on UK AT list

At Florence Marathon Jess Piasecki finally made her marathon debut and she did it in fine style. The Stockport athlete not only won the race by 78 seconds in a 74:31/70:58 negative split but also ran her way into the GB record books. It was a hugely popular result for Piasecki who picked up an injury mid race at the 2015 Frankfurt Marathon when looking on course for a sub 2:30 clocking.

Her 2:25:29 sees her edge past Charlotte Purdue’s 2:25:38 earlier this year at London to place 3rd on the British all-time list. That leaves the two pre-selected two Tokyo 2020 places as tough to beat but with a quality line up of Brits at Valencia Marathon lets wait and see. The final lady will need to run the qualifying time and place 1st Brit at London. It’s a tight turnaround but it makes for a compelling prospect for those of us watching!

Paul Molyneux clocked his fastest marathon time for three years running 2:22:55 to finish 8th overall. Also running sub 2:30 was Pete Robinson of Springfield Striders who clocked 2:28:41 in his 4th marathon of the year. Vicky Unsworth was the next British female over the line with the Liverpool Harrier running 3:01:02.

Further down the field it looks like the course was changed due to a gas leak leading it 700m short for some of the later finishers.

Isn’t it great when a long term plan comes together.

Thanks to all who have helped along the way pic.twitter.com/ouzyIdab4c

— Jessica Piasecki (@JessCoulson90) November 24, 2019

Euro Cross Trial at Sefton Park

It was the third installment of the British Athletics Cross Challenge series at Sefton Park this Saturday. The race also served as the trials for the Spar European Cross Country Championships, resulting in a fine field and a top notch day of racing.

In the U15 race Kiya Dee of Highworth kept her 100% record by winning in a time of 10:59, though not without a little tussle with Vale Royal’s Grace Roberts. Conditions became increasingly boggy throughout the day but that didn’t deter our hardened athletes.

A soggy set of spikes and a Euro XC champs place now belongs to Saskia Millard of Herne Hill Harriers thanks to her 15:32 finish. She’ll be joined in Lisbon by the rest of the top 5 finishers in her race (see below) who all automatically qualify.

Judd surpised after fine win

In the Senior Women’s race Jess Judd stormed ahead to take the lead from early on, much to her own surprise! She had plenty of time to slow down for the tape as her nearest rival, Charlotte Arter, finished 10 seconds behind her.

The previous match’s winner, Kate Avery was 3rd and the remaining place on the team was taken by Amy Griffiths. Bronwen Owen, Cari Hughes, Amelia Quirk and Eleanor Bolton all qualified for Lisbon in the u/23 team. Judd, Arter, Avery and Griffiths all cliched senior spots.

In the senior women’s race it was @jessjuddxx who crossed in first place and she was clearly delighted having secured her spot on the plane to Lisbon with victory in a wet and windy Liverpool this morning.#MuddyBrilliant pic.twitter.com/UmCjPGGW4V

— British Athletics (@BritAthletics) November 23, 2019

Connor continues his fantastic 2019

MK winner Mohammed Mohammed was again in fine form but it was British 10000m Champion Ben Connor to claimed a convincing win. Alex Yee and Adam Hickey also booked their spots on the Euro Cross squad.

Ultra marathon man Tom Evans clinched the third senior spot within his 6th place overall with Kristian Jones taking the fourth spot a couple of seconds back in 7th. U/23 qualifying men were Mahamed, Yee, Cairess and Sol Sweeney. The senior team will be made up by Connor, Hickey, Evans and Jones.

A full list of category winners can be found at the bottom of this report.

Credit: Alex Donald

Over the pond, Preston’s Patrick Dever forwent the mud of Liverpool to race for the University of Tulsa in the NCAA Cross Country championships. He finished 11th in the Men’s D1 race, running 10k in 30:59.4.

On the UK roads

The Run Through team were in action at their Battersea Park 5 & 10k on Saturday. Charlotte Mason (18:34), Kate Carter (18:58) and Laura Donnelly (21:30) topped the 5k for the ladies. James Share (15:28), Charles Pearson (15:47) and Adam Tapley (15:57) were the three fastest gents. In the 10k it was podium-time for Ludvig Johanssen (33:11), Barnaby Walker (33:51) and Mario Maresca (34:14) with Rebecca Newstead (34:44), Mollie Macve (34:51) and Katy Rashbrook (34:51) doing it for the ladies.

Leopoldo Burguete won the Wolverton 5 in Milton Keynes finishing in 24:11 ahead of Liam Dee in 24:22. According to Elliot Hind Burguete was the first MKAC man to win in 55 year history of the race!! Paul Mizon was third also cracking 25 minutes with 24:44.

Rafaela Fonseca of Rugby & Northampton was the women’s winning in 28:43 with Elle Roche of MKAC second in 29:30. 3rd place went to Martha Hall (30:27) of Garden City Runners.

Great win for Leopoldo Burguete at the Wolverton 5 in MK. Finishing in 24.11 ahead of Liam Dee (24.22). First MKAC man to win in 55 year history of the race!! Podium completed by Paul Mizon (24.44). I came 7th in PB 26.04. @FastRunning @AthleticsWeekly Pic Brian Graves. pic.twitter.com/DwrU4aSzuq

— Running Elliot (@runningelliot) November 24, 2019

Gloucester 10km saw two men run sub 30. Jonathan Hopkins of Swansea Harriers was the winner in 29:27 ahead of Peter Le Grice (29:53) with Tom Merson (30:07) rounding off the podium. Rachel Felton was the first women running 34:37 with Cornwall’s Heidi Tregenza 2nd in 35:47 and Carys Hughes 3rd in 36:02.

Doncaster 10k saw Nick Martin break the tape in 31:27 and V40 runner Jenny Blizzard race home in 36:10 for victory. Women’s-only club, Bournemouth Joggers hosted their open-to-all Boscombe 10k – Caroline Stanzel of Poole Runners was first lady back in a whisker over 40 minutes (40:02) and the overall winner was Bournemouth AC’s Rob McTaggart in 33:47.

There were some seriously impressive performances at Hatfield 5 with a tightly fought race won by England marathoner Dani Nimmock in 27:21 edging out Annabel Gummow of Winchester who clocked 27:31 with Gemma Kersey also running sub 28 with 27:51. Ash Harrell was the overall winner in 24:36, with Mark Spiller 2nd in 27:13 and Rowan Daly 3rd in 27:15.

At the Eynsham 10k Daniel Hamilton of San Domenico RC ran a 32-flat to take the win and Vale of Aylesbury’s Sophie Delderfield found 37:25 swift enough for victory. The Jigsaw 10k at Dunsfold Park in Surrey was the site success for v50 speedster Elspeth Turner who finished in 38:06, though she has a 37:24 season’s best over the distance. It would seem reasonable to guess that 10k isn’t the distance of choice for 26.2 RC’s Tim Bartholomew, so he can be happy with his top spot in 35:09.

Hertfordshire Half saw Yorkshire Marathon winner Charlene Jacobs-Conradie (Luton AC) back in golden form, winning in 1:22:36. Hercules Wimbledon took the men’s crown in 1:11:25 thanks to Alex Milne. Silverstone was host to a range of distances on Sunday.

The Silverstone Half currently has some strange chip time results but in the Silverstone 5k, Keiran White (16:38) and Louise Balloch (19:24) were top. Silverstone 10k winners were James Dales (34:03) and Cat Cummings (38:37).

Finally and much more briefly, the Migo Mile took place at Queen’s Park, Glasgow. We’re still waiting on results but we do know that Male and female course record were broken and the overall winning time was 4:57.

Full British Cross Challenge results

U11 Boys, 2k

1st Charlie Collins  06:53, 2nd Fred Jones (Wolverhampton & Bilston) 06:59, 3rd William Coles (Carmathen) 07:07

U11 Girls, 2k

1st Molly Carvell (WESPA) 07:30, 2nd Valerie Teare (Liverpool Harriers) 07:40, 3rd Lexi Ellis (WESPA) 07:46

U13 Girls, 3k

1st Zoe Gilbody (Chiltern Harriers) 11:06, 2nd Abigail Reid (Woodford Green Essex Ladies) 11:19, 3rd Shaikira King (Wreake & Soar Valley) 11:35

U13 Boys, 3k

1st Aiden Collier (Chiltern Harriers) 10:41, 2nd Oliver Patton (Kilbarchan) 10:54, 3rd Craig Shennan (Giffnock North) 10:58

U15 Boys, 4k

1st Lewis Sullivan (St Edmunds) 9:50, 2nd Benjamin Peck (Thetford) 9:58, 3rd Joshua Blevins (North Shields Poly) 10:01

U15 Girls, 3k

1st Kiya Dee ( Highworth) 10:59, 2nd Grace Roberts (Vale Royal) 11:02, 3rd Elsie Robinson (Saffron AC) 11:09

U17 Women, 4.4k (run with Junior Women)

1st Anna Hedley (City of Lisburn) 15:59, 2nd Maya Todd McIntyre (Rushcliffe) 16:30, 3rd Hannah Anderson (East Kilbride) 16:35

IAAF Junior Women (U20 on 31.12.18), 4.4k (top 5 qualify)

1st Saskia Millard (Herne Hill Harriers) 15:32, 2nd Izzy Fry (Newbury AC), 3rd 15:33, Megan Keith (Inverness Harriers AAC) 15:34, 4th Amelia Samuels (Wolverhampton & Bilston AC) 15:41, 5th Olivia Mason (Border Harriers) 15:47.

U17 Men, 5.5k

1st Louis Small (Ashford AC) 18:26, 2nd Sam Martin (Guildford & Godalming) 18:31, 3rd Johnny Livingstone (Exeter Harriers) 18:33

IAAF Junior Men (U20 on 31.12.18), 6.7k (top 5 qualify) 

1st Matt Willis 21:13 (Wales /WrexhamAAC), 2nd Charlie Hicks (University of Stanford) 21:28, 3rd Zak Mahamed 21:31 (Southampton AC), 4th Hamish Armitt (Giffock North AAC) 21:34, 5th Will Barnicoat (Windsor Slough E & H AC)21:35

Senior Women including U23 Women’s European Trial, 8.1k (top 4 qualify)

1st Jess Judd (Blackburn Harriers) 28:22, 2nd Charlotte Arter (Cardiff AAC) 28:32, 3rd Kate Avery (Shildon Running & AAC) 28:40, 4th Amy Griffiths (Aldershot, Farnham & District AC) 28:43, 5th Abbie Donnelly (Lincoln Wellington) 28:34, 6th Jenny Nesbitt (Cardiff AAC) 28:47, 7th Bronwen Owen (Leeds) 28:57.

Senior Men including U23 Women’s European Trial, 9.8k (top 4 qualify)

1st Ben Connor (Derby AC) 30:22, 2nd Mohamad Mohamad (Southampton AC) 30:27, 3rd Alex Yee (Kent AC) 30:25, 4th Adam Hickey (Southend-on-Sea) 30:50, 5th Emilie Cairess (Leeds) 31:00, 6th Tom Evans (Lewis AC) 31:03, 7th Kris Jones (Swansea) 31:05.

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The post Piasecki flying in Florence, Connor & Judd win in Liverpool – week roundup appeared first on Fast Running.

This weekend saw an absolutely huge run from the Cardiff’s U23 athlete, Jake Smith, at the Boulogne-Billancourt Half Marathon in France. Smith ran himself to not only a 2-minute half marathon PB, but also knocked 1 minute off the U23 British record. Smith ran an incredible 62:02 for the half marathon distance which saw him finish 5th with Kipkoech Felix winning in 60:12. In a return to form after his withdrawal from Frankfurt Marathon Josh Lunn ran a fine 65:08 for 10th.

Huge run by @JakeSmith_run today in Paris- 62:02 half marathon to take 1min from the @BritAthletics U23 record! #LoveItWhenAPlanComesTogether pic.twitter.com/iwwfNGAcWU

— James Thie (@TeamThie) November 17, 2019

In the World Mountain Running Championships, the British team had some storming results, coming home with 4 medals between them. In the men and women’s long-distance races, GB’s Charlotte Morgan finished 7th and Jonathon Albon an impressive 4th!

Over the classic distance, Phillips Williams had a phenomenal run, finishing 3rd overall, doing her nation proud. The senior women’s team also secured themselves the bronze team medal! The junior men’s team also had huge success, with Joe Dugdale claiming gold and the 3-man junior team also claiming gold.

We will have a full report on the World Mountain Running Championships over coming days.

The Braids 10k XC kickstarted the weekend’s results with some quick times through the mud and over the hills in Edinburgh University’s open event. Kris Jones claimed the victory in the men’s race, clocking a rapid 29:58 for the distance. The Swansea athlete gave a strong performance after finishing 5th in last weekend’s Scottish National Short Course Championships. Next to cross the line in 2nd place was Kevin wood in 31:42 followed by Ewan Brown, just 22 seconds behind.

The women’s race saw Leeds Uni’s Jemima Elgood take home gold in a cracking 36:19. Elgood has been in strong form after achieving a 34:41 PB at the Leeds Abbey Dash this year. Elgood was followed home by Hunters Bog Trotters’ Jill Stephen in 37:58, an impressive performance on a muddy course. Rounding off the women’s podium was Hannah Stroud in 39:30.

British & Irish Masters XC titles decided

There were some great performances as England dominated in the British and Irish International Grand Masters Cross Country in Aintree. Out of a total 18 individual titles up for grabs across all the different age groups, England took home 10 of them. A few stand out performances came from Nigel Gates in the M65 race as he improved on his silver medal from last year, taking home gold. David Butler secured a hat-trick in the M55 race, claiming his third consecutive win. Peter Giles had the biggest win of the day, leading the M75 race by nearly 2 minutes! Mark McKinstry ran a super fast 24:51 over the 8km course to retain his M35 title.

The women’s performances were just as impressive. A few noteworthy performances included England’s Kirsty Longley, who after a 33:40 10k time at Leeds Abbey Dash a few weeks ago, took home the win in the W40 event with Michelle Sandison claiming the W35 title. Claire Martin landed herself a 25-second lead in the W45 category. England were also successful winners in the W55 and W60 event, with British Masters athlete, Clare Elms being the W55 winner. England’s Angela Copson was also among the winners on the day in the W70 category.

Back on the road.

On the road, the results this weekend were just as impressive. The Derby 10 mile saw some quick names lining up. Ben Connor ran a strong race all the way to the end when there was a fight for the gold medal as second place’s Dougie Musson did not give in. Derby’s own, Connor, crossed the line at 49:42 ahead of Musson (Notts) in 49:45, just 15 seconds outside of his personal best. Third place was achieved by Bedford & County’s Jonathon Janes in 51:54, in his debut over the distance. Connor’s performance is particularly impressive as it looks like he ran the race as a strucutred session;

Good run out today @derby10mile. Helped me get through a session of in/out miles Thanks to the organisers for putting on a great race despite the weather issues throughout the week.
Onto liverpool https://t.co/9z4JWkTPyZ pic.twitter.com/9jE0fC8DgT

— BEN CONNOR (@bdconnor) November 17, 2019

Getting the win in the women’s race in Derby was Natalie Bunce from Holme Pierrepont. Bunce ran an impressive 1:02:46 in what was also her 10-mile debut. Echoing the men’s race with a close finish, Tracy Hinxman took home the silver medal in 01:02:48. Third place went to Alice Thackray in 01:02:56.

The famous Brampton to Carlisle 10 mile race always sees quick times on the overall downhill gradient. This year was no different with a tight battle between Charlie Hulson and Philip Sesemann. In the end it was Liverpool Harrier Hulson who came out on top clocking 47:24 with Leeds man Sesemann a few seconds back in second with 47:45. Marc Brown of Salford Harriers also broke the 50 minute barrier with 49:41 for third.

Alison Lavender continued her fantastic recent form to cross the line as the winning women running 56:00 with a much more comfortable margin of victory than Hulson with her nearest challenger being Annabel Simpson in 58:09. Tracy Millmore of Birtley AC was third in 59:25.

Credit: Dave Norman

Speedy times were present at the Preston 10. Stockport Harrier, Andrew Davies, had a strong race resulting in the win in a time of 49:10. It was then Matthew Crehan of St. Helens Sutton AC and Michael Cayton of Ribble Valley Harriers who followed in 2nd and third respectively. The race was close, but it was Crehan who took silver in 49:32 and Cayton bronze in 49:35.

For the women, Swansea Harriers’ Elinor Kirk came out on top with a noteworthy 55:51, and a 40-second lifetime best. Following behind Kirk in second place was Emily Japp (Blackpool Wyre & Fylde AC) in 56:45, just under 4-minutes faster than her previous best time! It was then Laura Hesketh who was third woman home in 59:06 for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers.

Down on the south coast was the Brighton 10k. On what was a morning with perfect conditions, fast times were in abundance. Finn McNally was the strongest athlete on the day and claimed himself the win in 30:23. The Brighton Phoenix athlete ran a seasons best by 16 seconds. Following McNally was Michael Kallenberg, back in some great form recently. Kallenberg (Cardiff) finished in second-position with a time of 30:44. Completing the men’s podium was U23 athlete Archie Davis in 31:14 for his first 10k of the year.

The female athletes matched the men with some high-quality performances. Beth Kidger was the first woman home in her club town in 34:20. Kidger held a strong lead with second place’s Chloe Richardson following in 35:10. It was Maisie Trafford of Arena 80 who claimed the final top 3 position in 35:31. A speedy race down in Brighton!

Finn McNally
@archiedavis4
@bethkidger
Good day at the office for our elites at the home patch @Brighton_10K. pic.twitter.com/l9QLVhEpcc

— Phoenix (@brightonphoenix) November 17, 2019

Also over the 10k distance, the Adidas City Runs Fulham 10k took place. It was Hercules Wimbledon’s William Woodcock who won the overall title in 31:47. This was a huge 63 second lifetime best for the runner. Settling for second, only eight seconds behind Woodcock was Patrick Leonard. Markhim Lonsdale was the third male runner, stopping the clock at 32:05 as he crossed the line. It was interesting to see Lonsdale, one of Britain’s fastest ever juniors over 800m racing the longer distances.

The Fulham 10k did not disappoint for the women either as Katy Gomes ran a time of 34:29 for the win. Jackie Skinner had a strong race to finish in second place. Skinner also ran a huge PB by over a minute of 36:23. The final woman in the top 3 was Ania Gabb (Dacroum & Tring) with yet another big personal best of 38:48.

The County Down 5km saw some excellent performances. Returning after his recent Frankfurt Marathon run Eoin Hughes took the men’s win with 15:09 to see off the challenge of Omagh man Eoin Mullan by one second in a tight finish. Gareth Lyons was third with 15:46. Northern Ireland & Ulster 1500m Champion Rachel Gibson ran a new 5km PB to win in 16:50 ahead of Catherine O’Connor who ran 17:50 for second with Mari Troeng third in 18:44. ANother notable performance as racing machine Tommy Hughes. Approaching his 60th birthday the Olympian ran 16:13 in another record breaking performance.

In the Matthew Walker 10k it was previous European Cross Country silver medalist, Gemma Steel than claimed the women’s gold medal. Steel ran 36:47 for the clear win. Highgate’s Chris Rainford was the men’s winner in a time of 32:56, with yet another strong margin of victory.

The Runthrough Victoria Park 5k, 10k, and half marathon took place with some speedy times to note over all the distances.

To start the event off, the 5k winners were on top form. Patrick Townsend of Notts took home the win in the men’s race, securing himself an 11 second PB of 15:28. The women’s gold medal position was claimed by Anne Hansen in a time of 18:49.

Over double the distance in the 10k event, Nick Harris-Fry secured himself the overall win. The Orion athlete ran a powerful race, crossing the finish line in 32:56, a 56 second PB! A great position to be in at the close of the year and has he prepares for Valencia Marathon in two weeks. Following Harris-Fry was Rodrigo Santos in 33:15 and James Stewart in 33:21 second and third respectively with a close finish.

For the women, it was Fiona Eagle who secured the gold medal in 38:35. Eagle was shortly followed by Kent’s Eliza Grant in her first ever sub 40 10k (39:12). The bronze medal went to Marina Johnson in 40:30.

A race over twice the distance (well slightly more) was the Runthrough Victoria Park half marathon. The Cambridge Harrier, Ben Shearer, was the strongest runner on the day, storming to the top of the podium. Shearer ran a solid 69:30. The second male across the line was Victoria Park & Tower Hamlet’s own Ewan Cameron. Cameron followed shortly behind Shearer in 69:51. The third male runner, in 72:28, was Matt Wood.

In the women’s event Rose Harvey of Clapham Chasers had an absolutely cracking run. Harvey secured the win in an impressive 3 minute 55 second lifetime best of 76:04. Rose Harvey was followed by club mate, Lucie Custance, who crossed the finish in 83:23. Completing the top three women, just one second behind Custance, was Laura Carsen.

Also over the 21km distance was the Gosport Half Marathon. Louise Damen won the women’s title for Winchester & District AC by just over one and a half minutes. Damen ran 76:52 for her first half in seven years. The Commonwealth Games marathon runner also has many GB cross country vests to her name and in 2013 held both the English XC champs and UK Inter-Counties XC titles! Second female across the line was Jen Granger of Southampton in 78:34, over a 15-minute improvement on her time since 2013! It was Worthing & District Harriers’ Sarah Kingston who claimed the bronze medal with a time of 81:05.

The mens winner was Daniel Eckersley who ran 69:41 to just edge out Elliot Robinson 69:54 with local man Max Costley a few seconds further back in third with 70:14.

Just outside of Sheffield and Rotherham in the Rother Valley Country Park was the Rother Valley Running Festival, spanning the whole weekend.

There were plenty of winners at the event, starting with the ultra-marathon. Helen Hygate landed herself the women’s win in a time of 4:57:09 and James Wilson took home gold for the men in 3:47:53 with a new men’s record for the event.

Over the marathon distance, it was Lorna Hulme of Dudley and Stourbridge Harriers who claimed the winning title. Hulme also ran herself to a new course record of 3:08:23. George Ravenhall was yet another winner on the day in 2:36:40.

David Stewart won the half marathon event at the running festival this weekend. Stewart stopped the clock at 1:16:36. For the women, Ackworth Road Runner, Sarah Hunter, took home the gold medal with a solid 1:26:49, beating her own course record set last year! Hunter knocked 2 minutes 17 seconds off her own previous time.

The Long Sutton 10k was yet another 10k to occur this weekend. Iain Bailey claimed the overall title in 33:14 and Juliet Potter took home the win for the women in 35:35. At the Adnams Southwold 10k, Peter Miller won in 33:42 and Juliette Watkinson was first female finisher in 39:03.

Back in the mud.

Back in the cross country mud was the Welsh Inter-Regional Championships in Brecon. The senior women’s title was obtained by Alaw Beynon-Thomas on what was a wet, grey, and rainy day, followed by Lucy Marland with Megan Carter-Davies third.

Matthew Edwards had a strong race, fixing himself the winning position as he ran through the tape well clear of Ewan Short in second with Luke Williams third.

Credit: Welsh Athletics

At the home of English Cross Country in Parliament Hill were the London Cross Country Champs. As always, the course lived up to its muddy, and hilly, reputation. The women’s race took place over a distance of 6k, but the shorter distance didn’t mean it was any the sweeter. First-place went to Rebecca Piggott of London Heathside, who also secured both the men and women’s team gold medal.

The men were faced with the slightly longer distance of 10k at hilly Parliament hill. It was Seyfu Jamaal who took the victory title for the men as well as being first U20, continuing on the success for London Heathside.

Great afternoon at Parliament Hill with @SEAACompetition for the London XC champs. Gold for Rebecca Piggott, Gold for Seyfu Jamaal, and Gold for both men and women’s @LondonHeathside teams. And Seyfu also first U20. pic.twitter.com/0UERTorIb0

— Jacob Howe (@JacobMHowe) November 16, 2019

Mixing up the terrains.

Natalie White had a strong race across the seas in Italy. At the 21km Balcone Del Biellese Trail race, in what can only be described as brutal weather, White took home the win. Through incessant rain and slippery conditions, she stormed home in a cracking time of 1:58:59. In the 37km event Robbie Britton came 2nd, with an excellent performance on his return to running after a recent step into long distance bike racing.

Down in the west country the multi-terrain Drogo 10 saw some competitive racing with Chichester stalwart James Baker winning in 61:37 ahead of Sam Hopton (64:18) and Sam Kelly (64:29). Elizabeth Dyson was the wining woman in 73:56 with Elizabeth Kendon 2nd (74:18) narrowly pushing Charlotte Benning (74:55) into 3rd. GB trail runner Jo Meek was 4th in 75:43.

In the Peak District, the tough Kendal Mountain Festival 10k trail race saw some gutsy performances from both men and women. The trail run took place around Kendal with plenty of natural obstacles, including 4.5km of climbing throughout! Out of the women, it was Emma Clayton who secured herself an impressive lead. The Leeds City athlete had a strong race and crossed the line in 44:09. The next female athlete across the finish line was AFD’s Sally Ratcliffe. After a solid run at last weekend’s Milton Keynes Cross Challenge, Ratcliffe continued to prove her winter strength with a second-place finish in 46:51. In third position was Harriet Wingfield, just 8 seconds outside of second-place.

In the men’s race and taking the overall win was Tom Adams of Ilkley. The athlete boasts an impressive 31:25 10k road PB and translated this into a strong performance on the trails. Adams secured himself the win in 38:17. It was Chris Richards who achieved a silver medal finishing position in 39:02. Ambleside AC’s Jack Wright completed the podium positions coming in third. Some super results on a tough course.

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The post Jake Smith smashes GB u/23 HM record – weekend roundup appeared first on Fast Running.