Thanks to Tom for this latest report from the Ryde Harriers. Ed
The club had a range of trophies, from club championship events to present, but it was the yearly awards that provoked the most interest.
Club Person of the Year was awarded to Ken Beak (pictured below) for his tireless work around the set up and pack down of races along with his contribution to Thursday coaching sessions.
Athlete of the Year went to Sarah Kavanagh for the women and Tom Blackwell for the men.
A new annual award was introduced this year for Runners’ Runner with club members voting on their champion, and it was club captain, Pete Still, who received the inaugural prize.
There was also a return for the much-missed Services to Running History prize, which Stephen Lee was the deserved winner.
Championship awards presented on the night included the Summer Series trophies for nominated road races, which went to Andy Lewis, nominated multi-terrain races, which went to Julie King, and the Best Overall which went to Andy and Julie once again.
Finally the Mile Race Cups were presented, going to Emily Wildon for the women and Tom Blackwell for the men (pictured at the top of the article).
All the prizes were presented by honorary guest for the evening Ray Scovell. The Island athletics legend amused many with a selection of press cuttings and photos from his younger days as a Ryde Harrier.
Latest club event
Away from the awards and at the latest club night event it was 5km handicap time with 45 runners taking on the challenge.
First home for the women was Carolyn Ward who was 35 seconds in front of her nearest rival Samantha Fancourt with the fast improving Rosie Eldridge in third.
For the men Simon Joy continues his road to full fitness with a very impressive run 51 seconds ahead of Trevor Mcalister in second with Ken Beak in third.
