Going Dutch

Amsterdam Marathon and Half Marathon – 15.10.06

Last weekend saw a large contingent of EPRC runners undertake a short, but incredibly successful, trip across the North Sea to Holland to partake in the ING Amsterdam Marathon and Half Marathon.

Performer of the day, Brian Griffiths, enjoying probably his best season to date, delivered yet another superb time in knocking an incredible 20 minutes of his Marathon PB to post 3hrs14m56s. Alan Durston reaped the benefit of his many weeks of arduous training to ambulate round the 26.2 mile course in 3hrs49m35s, with John Hawker not too far behind in 3hrs57m15s.

In the Half Marathon, it all added up to a great occasion for the ever-improving Alison Hughes who accounted for her best run of the season in taking 2 minutes of her PB to notch 1hr32m17s.
Matt Whitfield ensured the sheen was not taken of his recent improvement in form by registering a glossy 1hr27m06s. Keith Musson once again displayed his returning race prowess to record an even 1hr 38m. Obviously benefiting from the chemistry of this big race and getting his formula right was Danny Legg who ran close to his predicted finish time in clocking 1hr41m6s.     

A couple of EPRC’s travelling stable failed to come under starters orders; Nicky Bird had to sit this one out, due to a nagging hip injury, as did Chris Bennion, but both will be hopeful of successful rehabilitation in time for the next Borders Race. 

David Lloyd 10k – 15.10.06

A smaller number of EPRC’s runners graced the field in this local race, which did not seem to be as popular as last year with a seemingly smaller turnout and only a handful of spectators. Nonetheless, clearly enjoying the conditions and leading the club home, finishing in 37.52 minutes, was John Fiddler. Tony Hyland finishing in just under 40 minutes quickly followed in John. Tony was pleased with his time as he begins to step up his training frequency and intensity, which should soon see him return to the form of previous seasons.  

First and only lady home for EPRC was Alison Macdonald, who recorded just over 41 minutes to secure 3rd placed lady overall and probably first Lady Vet40. Alison continues to record respectable times without hitting the heights of previous years. However, a planned short break and freshening up of her training regime over the next few weeks should see her begin to bring her times down.