Crook claims overall third in Big 10K
IT was a warm but wet and windy start as 2,000 people congregated in the centre of Stockport for this year’s Life Leisure Big 10k road race.
It was also great to see so many other Stockport Harriers who weren’t running but lined the course to shout everyone on.
Of the 660+ finely tuned athletes that competed in the event, 32 wore the Stockport colours in a bid to win valuable race series points, recognition from the throbbing crowds and glory – although it may just be about the free mug at the end!
Just after 10am, the rain stopped, the wind died down and the runners were off.
It was a pretty fast start with plenty of space to manoeuvre and the route went out of the town centre and down towards Vernon Park.
After a very gentle climb through the park (or not!) the course entered Woodbank Park and towards the clubhouse. It then took a sharp left onto the field and headed out towards the cricket pitch hill.
The route then turned into the playing fields and onto the estate then back onto familiar tarmac the route re-entered Vernon Park for a downhill section before heading back towards town.
That was until the dreaded mini-hill with about 500m to go. Thus the finish line came not a moment too soon of a race that is well known for its atmosphere, course route and organisation. CrazyLegs Events certainly do a good job.
Stephen Crook was first Harrier and an incredible third overall in 35:34! He was followed by Phil Burns in 38:08 and 15th overall. Gavin Astin was third Harrier and 22nd overall in 39:29.
First female Harrier and second female overall was Lesley Sinclair in 43:02. Lesley also won the V50 age category.
Another incredible result was from Samantha Thomas who was 3rd female overall and second female Harrier in 43:13.
The next C25K course will be starting on Tuesday, 23rd October, 7.00pm, from the Community Centre, Turncroft Lane, Stockport SK1 4BN.
The community centre is at the entrance to the main Woodbank car park.
This course is suitable for people who have no running experience and starts with more walking than running and gradually builds up to running for 30 minutes.
It is fully supported by England Athletics’ coaches and held under the auspices of Stockport Harriers. Cost is £24 for the full eight week course.
There is a goody bag for everyone who completes the course. For further information please contact Alexis. dinsmor@ntlworld.com