Thanks to Tom for this latest report from the Ryde Harriers. Ed
Many people have opinions on the toughest challenge in running. Marathons, fell runs and ultra runs all have their claims to this title, but also in there must be a 10k race on the track.
It’s a race that is often difficult to watch on the television, so imagine the mental and physical strain athletes are put under by 25 laps of the same 400m.
Add to this considerable heat and you are some way to understanding the effort required of the 12 competitors that lined up for this year’s Island 10k track championships.
Apparent ease for road runner Paul
This also puts into perspective the ridiculous ease that Paul Cameron of IW Road Runners once again retained the title with his time of 36.28, comfortable enough to allow him to jog one lap mid-race to chat with Andrew Keehn (it should be noted that Andrew didn’t feel the same comfort at this point!).
Simon McMorran followed Paul across the line for second in a time of 37.43, pleasing for Simon after a few difficult weeks of injury.
The women’s race was a little tighter, but with a much smaller field as Grace Crumplin of IWAC continued to show good form by beating of the challenge of Mandy Womack.
Rare win for Kevin
Back over in Ryde and the latest Harriers club night nominated race saw a rare win for Kevin Hillier as he claimed the top points finishing just two seconds outside of his estimated time.
Ken Beak will feel slightly aggrieved, as he was only three seconds out himself but had to settle for second place. First home around the 5.2 mile course was Tom Hill in 39.19 with Julie King the first women back in 40.57.
Next event
The next Harriers event is the 30th Isle Of Wight Half-Marathon on Sunday August 17th with a 5k fun run raising money for IW Youth Trust running at the same time.
More details via www.rydeharriers.co.uk
