Saturday, 4th February 2023 saw the annual return of The Rauceby Ripper. A multi terrain race consisting of mud, sand, gravel, a little bit of road and freshly ploughed fields. The race was well organised by Sleaford Town Runners with great support around the course by their members.
In a field of 250 runners 6 members of GRC took part, some for the first time whilst others were seasoned veterans, knowing what to expect from the course.
Conditions on the day were good and dry which definitely helped with finish times.
First across the line for GRC, and his first time taking part, was Russel Whittaker who finished in 6th place overall with a chip time of 58:02 placing him first in his age category and being rewarded with his first trophy! Very well done!
Peter Bonner credits the Ripper as his favourite race of the year and was 2nd across the line for GRC. Finishing in 1.00.01, so close to breaking the hour mark, he finished in the top 10. Peter has run the Ripper multiple times before and just keeps getting quicker and stronger with every year.
Peter was followed by Paul Davis who put in a strong effort finishing in 1:16:42 beating his 2022 time by an incredible 10 minutes!
Nicci Whittaker was the first female across the line for GRC finishing her first Ripper and longest ever race in 1:18:08. Surprising herself with her performance she even managed to get a 10km pb of 53.35!
Sarah High was next across the line placing 2nd in her age category in 1:18:43. This was Sarah’s first Ripper and, in her words, “she didn’t hate it, she would definitely do it again and recommends it all who likes cross country”.
Caroline Davis quickly followed finishing in 1:18:48. A seasoned Ripper runner Caroline settled into the race, enjoying it and kept a strong pace throughout the course.
All GRC’ers agreed the atmosphere was fantastic with many of the marshals around the course in costume… think Sherlock and the Ripper.
At just £18 to enter, The Ripper is excellent value, with the 2023 race selling out in just 3 hrs! A race that is highly recommended by all who took part!