Runners have spring in their step despite overnight rain
CHEADLE Running Club staged the Cheadle Spring 5 Road Race last Sunday, March 24.
172 runners completed the course, which is the highest number of entrants in recent years, and the club received numerous compliments for the smooth and successful organisation of the event.
Heavy overnight rain had occurred, and the temperatures on the day were chilly with a brisk wind. Fortunately the rain stopped just before the start of the race and the runners achieved some excellent times.
Before the start of the race, a minute’s silence was respectfully observed by the assembled runners for George Hall, a founder member of the club, who had sadly passed during the year.
The race was won by Alex Mayne from City of Stoke in 27.25, followed by Eammon Clowes from Newcastle Tri Club in 28.11, with Billy Barrett from Rugeley Runners taking third place in 28.37.
Emily Merrison from City of Stoke was the first female to finish in 31.13, Amanda Kelly also from City of Stoke clocked 31.43, followed by Holly Wall from Staffs Moorlands AC in 32.18.
A number of members of Cheadle Running Club enthusiastically helped to organise the event on the day and the duties included marshalling, timekeeping and time recording.
Five club members competed in the race, with Jenny Dalkins winning the F45 prize in 33.58, and Ruth Watchorn-rice won the F55 prize in 35.18. Paul Stoddard took the third M55 place in 35.25, with John Brown being the second M70 place in 54.58, and Russell Williams was fourth M60 in 42.50.
Former club member Dale Thompson, who had relocated to Australia, also competed in the race during a visit to the UK, clocking 48.41 and was second F70.
The race was sponsored by Stoddards Ltd, Just Floors (Stoke) Ltd and AJS Rehabilitation.
Following the success of the event Cheadle Running Club are looking forward to staging the Cheadle 4 Road Race which takes place on Sunday June 30, 2024.