West Glebe Park in Corby was the venue for the second North Midlands Cross Country League fixture. On an unseasonably mild afternoon GRC was represented by both women’s and men’s teams.
First up was the women’s race which was over a 6K distance and consisted of two large laps of the 50/50 course which was fairly flat with the exception of a ‘fun’, wooded section which provided the technical and hilly difficulty.
Competing against a large field with a wide range of ages from Seniors upwards, Harriet Morgan quickly got into her stride as leading GRC lady, a position that she maintained, finishing first for GRC in 27:49 and 4th in her age category.
Next back was Andrea Ward in 28:41 followed not long after by Sarah High in 29.16 which secured her third place in her age category. Marj Spendlow and Nicci Whittaker, who are both developing a passion for cross country, finished next in times of 29:43 and 30:41 respectively. Nicci who was happy to have survived, says she will be back to better herself.
Bringing the team home was Paula Ebbins who put in a sterling effort to finish 6th in her age category and happy that she had overtaken couple of students.
Then it was the men’s turn over a10K distance which demanded the completion of one small lap followed by three large laps of the course. Up against strong competition, first home for the GRC men was the ever-impressive Russel Whittaker who, running this course for first time, finished in a time of exactly 35 minutes and 6th in his age category.
Sam Jepson followed 11 seconds later having chased Russel for the duration of the race. Sam was happy to have stayed consistent throughout and pleased that he was able to chase down a few positions on the last lap.
Dean Riggall followed putting in a strong performance to finish in 38:25. Chasing Dean was an in-form Peter Jennings who found the woods the best bit and finished in 41.48 and 7th in his age group. Not far behind Peter was Robin Atter who put in a spirited performance to finish in 42:11.
Craig Drury was next. He was happy to be faster than two years ago and felt that his sub 50 time of 48:45 was nice. Cross country regular, Andrew MacAllister, put in a great effort and completed the race in 51:26 which secured him 6th place in his age category.
Our newest recruit to cross country, Jack Holroyd, brought the team home with a dogged performance.
As is the norm, there was again a great team atmosphere which was epitomised by Russel accompanying Jack for the last part of his final lap.
Overall, a fantastic effort by all GRC runners and another great afternoon of cross country running.
Following this event the men’s team is currently lying in seventh place in the league and the ladies’ in fifth place.
Report c/o Sarah High
Photo c/o Andy Mutley Photos
