Simon and Bryan Munich - Ryde Harriers

Busy weekend for Ryde Harriers including a marathon in Munich for two

Thanks to Tom for this report from Ryde Harriers. Ed


Saturday saw teams from IWAC, Wight Tri and Ryde Harriers taking part in the first of five fixtures in the Hampshire Cross Country League.

A return to the lovely Farley Mount venue was welcomed by all, even if the weather tried its best to put a dampener on the day, but despite the rain on the day, along with the previous day’s downpours the undulating course held up very well and there was some late sunshine to enjoy as well.

IWAC had junior teams in most categories with a number of athletes making the difficult step up in age category. Best performances came from the Under 17 and 13 boys who both managed fourth place overall against some very strong competition.

In the seniors Wight Tri made their debut in both men’s and women’s events with both teams posting good results. In the women’s race, Sarah Woods was first Islander home, just ahead of Lucy Wells, before the majority of Ryde Harriers contingent of seven came in, led by Mary Norman. In the men’s race Wight Tri again trumped Ryde Harriers with Sean Williams first Island man just ahead of IWAC’s sole representative Steve Haggerty.

Islanders ran in Munich marathon
Two Harriers made the trip over to Munich for the city’s annual marathon on Sunday. Training partners Simon Newman and Bryan Jones had differing experiences of the event.

Simon managed a personal best of 3.11 exactly, whilst Bryan was suffering from flu and struggled round for 3.47 which was well off his best. The post-race beer hall visit must have soothed the aches and pains though!

Primary fun run
Also over the weekend Queensgate Primary organised their second 5k/10mile fun run with a number of athletes competing in both events round East Cowes and it was the annual IW Marathon.

Nominated 10km run
Finally, news from Ryde Harriers latest club event as 30 runners took on the first nominated 10km run of the Winter series.

Nearest to her nominated time was Emma Wheeler who was only five seconds away. Tom Hill was a close second as he was nine seconds out. Fastest on the night was guest Chris Morey who cruised home in 38.53 just ahead of Adam Tuck who finished in 39.24. Fastest woman was once again Julie King who completed the course in 44.34.

Keep up to date with fixtures by visiting the Ryde Harriers Website.