Honours galore at multi terrain league

With the conclusion to the most popular multi terrain league ever at Arrowe Park, their was some excellent individual results not only in the final race but also in the whole competition for Ellesmere Port runners. The stand out performance has to be new recruit and rising star Gary Bird. With only one race under his belt prior to this series, he has managed to secure first place in the under 30 category. However not to be outshone by this rookie was Matthew Whitfield who also secured first place in the over 50 category.  Matt was unable to take part in the final race due to a hamstring strain, however his excellent results in a previous three races were enough to secure victory. Also securing a podium place was Ian Cooper who narrowly missed first place by four points in the over 40 category.

Unlucky not to get not to get amongst the medals was Alison MacDonald (O40)
 Madeleine Bird (O50), both finishing fourth in their respective categories.  Completing the lineup for Ellesmere Port in the over 40 category was Denis Duret (7th), Keith Jones (24th), Danny Legg (30th) and Mike Burns (35th).  Also competing at Arrowe Park was John Jennings 32:55, Nigel Crierie 39:15.

Berlin Marathon

John Hawker made the trip to Germany to take part in this extremely fast marathon course.  John started very strongly and by the halfway stage looked on for a new and significant personal best.  However, with temperatures rising above 18º, which while being ideal for 2 hour, altitude trained, Ethiopian legends, was less easy for mortals who train in the northwest of England, and consequently John’s times began to slip.  John finished not course in 3:47:41, narrowly missing a PB.  With good condition training during the winter, John is sure to set some great times during the spring marathon season.

While John will be extremely disappointed by his own high standards not to get PB,
He can console himself in the fact that he was there when history was made.  Haile Gebrselassie Silenced the last of his critics who claimed he could not be considered amongst the all-time greatest runners until he had broken the marathon world record.  This final task was completed and the record smashed by 29 seconds in a time of 2.04.26.   However not content with breaking 24 world records, Gebrselassie is talking about a 2:03 time and with previous record holder Paul Tergat aiming for a comeback, London Marathon is looking extremely interesting next year.

Flintshire 10k

Phil Langan was the clubs sole representative in this fast 10k around Mold.  Phil took full advantage of the great weather conditions to record an excellent time of 35:07.  With this sort of form, it will not be long until he is in 34 shape.  This is definitely a runner to keep an eye on.

Training sessions

Finally, anyone wishing to join the club whether beginner or competent runner, we meet at the Whitby Sports and Social Club on Tuesdays and Fridays at 6.45pm to commence running at 7pm and welcome all abilities in a fun and friendly atmosphere.  For further information, please do not hesitate to contact webmaster@ellesmereportrunningclub.org.uk.