Several hardy members of Grantham Running Club ventured to Shipley Park in Heanor recently to take part in the third fixture of the North Midlands XC League. Run around parkland with a few hilly sections and a short stretch through woodland, the event was a proper cross country experience. Courtesy of Storm Darragh, the weather was wet and very windy. This along with already waterlogged ground made for a very testing course which was bumpy underfoot with several extremely muddy patches and even a small mud bath at the bottom of one hill.
In the Ladies race, despite the challenging conditions, Marj Spendlow and Sarah High both put in strong runs in their 7.4K, 2 lap course with Sarah finishing first for GRC in a time of 41.47, 3rd in her age group, and Marj following shortly after in a time of 41.56. Our ladies team remain in 5th position overall in the league.
For the men’s team, our chaps acquitted themselves well in their 10K race against a strong, competitive field of 174 participants, with the ever impressive Russel Whittaker leading the team home and finishing in a time of 43.44. Peter Jennings put in strong performance finishing second for GRC and seventh in his age category. Craig Drury ran a determined race, finishing strongly in third place for the club and was followed by Andrew MacAllister who brought the team home.
Despite the tough conditions it was another enjoyable afternoon of cross country.
Thank you to everyone who has participated in the cross country for the club so far this season. There will be more in the New Year.
Photos c/o Andy Mutley Photos
