Winter Handicap, 31st January 2022
Thankfully the wind had died down following the weekend’s storms as 33 runners took part in this year’s Winter Handicap. This included a number of guests, including 3 from a running group based at the Civic Centre. Maria Duenas acted as a guide for one of them who was first off and they soon discovered that they had something in common, both being from Ecuador. I think they spent so much time nattering that they forgot it was a race!
Someone who did remember that it was a race was Michael Teasdale and he ran well to collect the handicap trophy (not to mention the chocolate biscuits). Michael has won before, so the handicapper will be keeping a close eye on him from now on!
Second on the night was a guest, Lucas de Rosa, who enjoyed himself so much that he has asked to join. Fred Besse showed that he is recovering well from his recent injury by finishing third, with Jamie Harding being close behind as third Claremonter home(in fourth place).
The Winter Cup final was a two horse race with Dave Roberts the clear winner ahead of Chris Jones. Chris will have another chance to win the coveted trophy when he is part of an male final in the Spring Cup. He will be joined in the final by Jamie Harding, Mungai Wairia and Mark Anderson.
The speed merchants on the night were more predictable with Kris Axon (21:40) being fastest on the night. Kris was clearly ahead of Mark Anderson and Anthony Liddle, who ran 24:06 and 25:38 respectively. Not far behind the lads, and fourth quickest overall, was the fastest lady – Sarah Kerr finishing in 25:45. Heather Steel {26:54) and Maddie Day (28:33) were the 2nd and 3rd fastest women.
Thanks to Anna for organising the well-attended social and buffet in the Cozy Dove afterwards and, as ever, thanks to Hazel and her team of marshals and officials for making it all happen. It was strange to have a handicap without Terry Welsh helping at the start and finish. I am sure that I express the thoughts of the whole club when I say that we wish Terry a speedy recovery and hope to see him on the start line soon.
Photos courtesy of Dave Manners.
