Kentish Express Ashford & District
Harriers in action
At long last the South Kent Harriers were able to participate in nonvirtual competition as nine runners completed the Smugglers 10k.
The race started at Minnis Bay, near Birchington and the first five kilometres was along ankle-twisty farm tracks to Reculver and then back along the sea wall, made difficult by a strong breeze in the runners’ faces.
First in for Harriers was Kevin Southen with a solid 47 minutes 21 seconds. Martin Salmon was next in with 49.19.
Running his first race for South Kent Harriers, Kevin Gregory was second in the men’s over60 category in 52.52.
First lady in for the club and third lady in the veteran women’s over-50 was Jane Wren in 53.05. Mel Satchwell and Royd Powell completed the distance in were next in 1:00.51.
Sarah Harvey had a steady run to record 1:02.40.
Lee Brewer completed a welcome comeback after a year out with a severe achilles tendon injury (1:11.07). Finishing strongly, Rebecca Edwards ran 1:17.49 to bring Harriers home tired but happy to be racing once again.
Meanwhile Margaret Connolly was running in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park 10k despite having hurt her back the day before. The race was held over a four lap course and it was very windy. Connolly ran 49.05 and, given the circumstances, was very pleased as it was the fastest time she has recorded for three years. She now wonders if she can get a new personal best time at the age of 63!
A special mention for James Roberts who is always on hand to encourage others. He ran a virtual marathon locally around Folkestone and Hythe completely solo and managed to finish in 4hrs 7mins.