After heavy rain the previous day, runners were greeted with dry but breezy conditions. 2009 race winner Anthony Valentine of Bolton again took out the race but pulled up with an injury on the first lap. This left Richard Howarth of Horwich to take over the lead with his club mate Colin Rigby chasing. After 3 laps Howarth held the lead and won by a comfortable margin in 29.01, almost a minute faster than Colin, who took 2nd and 1st V40 place. Champagne and a microwave oven were Richard’s reward at the post race presentation. Horwich, out in force impressively filled the first 7 places to easily win the A team race (first 10). Indeed with another large turnout they were assured of winning the B team race as well with the next 8, and also Vets (first 6 to count).
Martyn Pollitt, Burnden (45), Graham Schofield, Horwich (50), Ian Hamilton, A&T (55), Tony Hesketh Horwich (60) and Dave Waywell, Wesham (65) all gained first places in their respective vet categories.
Josie Maley of A&T continued her impressive season’s form by holding off Burnden’s Izzy Hughes by 42 seconds, winning in 35.58. Champagne and a gazebo for Josie. Izzy was 1st 40, with further age category honours going to Carmel Sullivan, Wesham (35), Brenda Wane, A&T (45), Anne Ferguson, Burnden (50), Sheila Jones, Radcliffe (55) and Eileen Royle, Radcliffe(60).
Burnden took the Ladies team prize on the day with Izzy, Kirsty Preece and Anne but A&T took the Grand Prix honours with the lowest 4 to count. On the day Horwich men obviously won the team prize with Martin Jones 3rd ahead of Graham Schofield being 4th counter.
Of the 87 finishers, 80 were runners running for the 8 grand prix clubs. 58 of those were Vets. Hopefully all enjoyed the challenge of the testing course and some runners may have even appreciated the fantastic views at the top of the course.
Thanks to all those that made this race happen and also to Bolton Mountain Rescue for their support on the day.
Chris Greenall
Burnden
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