Thanks to Tom for this latest report from the Ryde Harriers. Ed
The annual Boxing Day 5.5 mile run from Ryde Rowing Club out to Seaview and back always attracts a varied field of family, friends and twitchy athletes who can’t cope with more than a day off from pounding the streets.
This traditional event is open to all and starts at 11am with the bar open afterwards to allow those desperate to get back to more usual pursuits the chance to imbibe. If you would like to take part please bring an unwrapped gift to the value of £3.
Keep on running
Due to the fall of Christmas Day and NYE this year, there is also no break from the Tuesday night club night meets with a 5km fun run on Tuesday 23rd and 5 mile fun run on Tuesday 30th.
Looking further ahead there is the annual cross-country series, starting from Smallbrook Stadium on Sunday’s 25th January, 22nd February and 1st March, with all events open to all for a £3 fee.
For those of a less mud-loving persuasion the annual Ryde 10 mile road race takes place on Sunday 1st February and entries are open on the Ryde Harriers website. Both the Ryde 10 and the cross-country races have new courses for 2015 with more details available online.
5km handicap race
The latest Harriers club night run saw a smaller than usual field taking on the 5km handicap race in surprisingly mild conditions.
The gusty wind was for once with the runners as they stained their way along Ryde Esplanade for the final mile but it was Charlotte Pacy for the women and Trevor McAlister for the men who had the most fortuitous zephyr behind them as they took the maximum points, Charlotte set a new personal best in the process.
Steve Haines showed his returning fitness as he came in second whilst new Harrier Lucy Diamond took silver spot for the women.
