Thanks to Tom for this latest report from the Ryde Harriers. Ed
Warm sunshine welcomed the 56 runners who’d qualified for the Arthur Biggs Handicap race by taking part in at least one of the previous two races.
Saturated conditions
Out on the course conditions were even worse than the previous week, as the short turn-around hadn’t given the ground time to recover.
An overnight downpour added to already saturated conditions with one section near the start and finish almost comical with the amount of mud.
Trophies in their sights
The trophy up for grabs was for the first runners across the line, with competitors being set off at different timed intervals – the previous week’s IW XC champions Sarah Kavanagh and Paul Cameron being the final runners to go.
First woman home was IWRR Jo Randall who was over two minutes clear of Ryde Harriers Jo Beak and Katie Woods in second and third. The men’s contest was won by WWRR Ian Jolliffe with another duo of Harriers taking the next two place.
John Woodford showed his returning form after many years away from racing for second place and club chairman Andy Leal also demonstrated his improved fitness in third along with his amateur athletic spirit as he returned his monetary winnings, as required by the AAA.
Series trophies
There were series trophies for Ryde Harriers completing all three races as well. The women’s winner was never in major doubt as double race winner Sarah Kavanagh secured another cup. The men’s contest was more tight affair as reigning series champion Tom Blackwell managed to sneak the win by only a point for the second year running but this time around he edged it from Adam Tuck.
The veteran’s trophy also returned to it’s previous owner Les Cupis after another dominant series.
See the Website for more details about Ryde Harriers.
