Alison Beats the Crowds

On Sunday 30th September, Alison Hughes made the journey with 50’000 other runners to take part in this year's BUPA Great North Run.  The race which is the biggest half marathon in the world is renowned for being hard to set good times on.  However, this did not stop Alison, who spurred on by the crowds and beating almost 49’000 other runners, set a season best time of 1:33:13 and an unofficial 10-mile PB of 1:09:49. Unfortunately, the 10-mile time cannot count for Cheshire rankings (see below).
Kenyan runner Martin Lel in a sprint finish ahead of Sammy Wanjiru won the male race in a time of 1:00:10. The main headline was though, the eagerly awaited return of Paula Radcliffe, after a foot injury, the birth of her daughter Isla and a related back injury.  While she posted the 3rd best time of 2007 (1:07:53), the day belonged to Kara Goucher, who on her debut at the distance, posted the time of 1:06:57. 

Cheshire rankings

In the latest update of the 2007 Cheshire rankings, Ellesmere Port Running Club has 3 new entries.  Moreover, currently has 8 runners in 16 positions, this is the third most, just behind Wilmslow (23) and Warrington Ac (18).  The new entries are Alison Hughes (3rd) & Stephen Laker (7th) in the 10-mile category for their times posted at the Sale 10 & Chris Marshall (7th /marathon) for his result at Wolverhampton marathon.  Club number 1 runner Steve Crowe has a very impressive 1st place in the 10-mile category and a total of 5 ranking positions altogether. (1st/10mile, 2nd/half marathon, 3rd/5mile, 4th/5k, 4th/10k).
The other club entries are Nicky Bird (2nd/5mile, 8th/5k, 9th/10k), Mark Dodd (4th/marathon, 6th/10mile), Paul Robertson (9th/ marathon), Alison MacDonald (10th/marathon) & Stephen Laker (10th/marathon).

Borders league

Sunday 14th October sees the start of the 2007/08 borders league, with the first race being held at 11am at nova centre, Prestatyn.  Members wishing to take part can either meet at Whitby sports and social club at 9:30am or alternatively make their own way their.

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.