On a balmy Saturday in Kettering the Ladies and Gents of GRC took to the fields of Wicksteed Park for a “rollercoaster” North Mids Cross Country League Meet.
Whilst families serenely carried on with some unseasonably warm November thrills and spills of the Amusement park, the Green and Black clad XC warriors took to action o’er the rolling, twisty course – not “hilly” but also certainly not flat. The recent smattering of rain resulted in thick, lush grass with 2-3 paths to clunk the spike clad feet for good measure.
The Ladies were first to go for GRC, with an approx. 6km race – consisting of two laps of the rolling route.
Harriet Morgan was first home for GRC, her 31:10 securing 81st position. Ladies Captain and XC patron Sarah High next in 95th a time of 32:55.
Nicci Whittaker and Sylv Hull have been near inseparable in the early XC season and just 7 positions and 14 seconds were the eventual difference. 33:45 and ’59 for 104th and 111th respectively. “Fresh” from her Ultra, Caroline Davis wasn’t too far back with her 34:22 and 114th the full team happy with their days work.
The Men next, where a somewhat testing 3 extended laps (totalling over 10.4k) was the order of the day – the lactate sniper taking many down in the final lap! Newly elected Club captain, Russel Whittaker led the way as his fine year continues. He was pleased with his 58th place and 40:32 – easily a sub 40 10k.
23 seconds split the senior pair of Samuel Jepson (41:54 for 75th) and Piers Pye-Watson (42:17 for 79th). Samuel’s stronger start the only discernible difference. Piers’ strong run a welcome comeback to XC after a little hiatus.
Andrew Goddard (45:22 for 120th) the accomplished triathlete carrying over late summer fitness in a new arena.
Back and improving every run again, Matthew Williamson’s confidence taking a boost in the process – he clocked 45:53 for 129th.
Russell Maksymiw is enjoying his off-road adventure – smiling as he went with 47:44 for 149th.
Jason Blair continues his preparation for much bigger things, clocking 48:44 and a little back was the evergreen Rob Howbrook in 49:02 and 156th place.
Peter Jennings’ indomitable spirit and love for the sport knows not when to shy away – he ran a controlled 49:34 having had surgery early in the week!
Craig Drury vows to improve with every race this season and he is well on the way with his 192nd place finish of 58:31
As ever, the support and spirit of Grantham Running Club is the key takeaway with our friendly and welcoming tone and cheers; a source of much pride!
The next fixture in December is Allestree Park in Derby.
Report: Samuel Jepson
Photos c/o Andy Mutley Photos