The Spring Marathon season officially got underway this weekend. It was A Tale of Two Cities, with Lions aiming for the best of times at both Paris and Manchester.
Paris Marathon
This race across Paris, taking in the Champs Elysées, the Bois de Vincennes and Boulogne, offers an incomparable backdrop, with spectacular views and landmarks all along the route. Nine Lions took part, in extremely warm conditions, urged on by their loyal support crew who had made the journey across the Channel to cheer them round the course.
Results: Tim Walker 4:24:31, Mick Porter 5:01:52, Gareth Webb 5:11:19, Holly Maddocks 5:11:19, Anne-Marie Killeen 5:13:37, Anne Cawdron 5:36:30, Colette Croft 5:36:53, Linda Williamson 5:42:43, Jackie Barker 5:46:14
Many of the Paris Marathon runners and supporters took the opportunity to try Montsouris parkrun the day before the big race – and amazing veteran Lioness Bernadette Rowland set a new VW80 time of 40:15 over the 5K course. Allez Bernadette!
Manchester Marathon
Starting and finishing at Old Trafford, the Manchester Marathon attracted its biggest ever field this year. Ed Hyland led the Lions home in an excellent time, and there were several other strong performances and personal bests on the day.
Results: Ed Hyland 2:40:55, Sean Thompson 3:04:33, Clayton Cutter 3:18:40, Richard Cade 3:21:45, Richard Heaton 3:42:00, Jan King 3:46:27, Cat Daniel 3:55:23, Gail Schofield 4:22:59
Mags and Lucy finish 1st Lady and 3rd Lady at Baildon Boundary Way
The in-form Mags Beever continued her excellent season, finishing 1st Lady at the Baildon Boundary Way Trail Half Marathon. Lucy Collins (making her return to racing after a lay off) was hot on her heels, finishing 3rd Lady.
Results: Mags Beever 1:40:15, Lucy Collins 1:45:29, Damien Pearson 1:48:19, Julie Field 1:55:04, Derek Doyle 1:57:52, Amanda Zito 1:58:06, Alex Whyte 2:54:58
Sheffield Half Marathon
This demanding half marathon reward runners with spectacular views of the Peak District and various city landmarks. Starting in the City Centre, runners travel down the ‘Eccy’ Road, passing Encliffe Park and the outskirts of Dore before returning to the City Centre to finish in front of the Town Hall. The rapidly improving Michelle “Rocket” Rogerson was first Lion to finish, just ahead of partner Ian.
Results: Michelle Rogerson 1:46:00, Ian Hoskins 1:47:27
Thirsk 10 Mile
The Thirsk 10 has been held for over 30 years and provides a fast flat course which lends itself to a fast time and gives all abilities a chance of achieving a personal best. It also boasts a main grandstand finish at Thirsk Racecourse! It was Steve Hallam’s chance to shine on the day, leading the pack of Lions home in a return to full fitness after recent ill health.
Results: Steve Hallam 1:17:21, Rebecca O’Neill 1:23:35, Liz Hallam 1:31:46
Bunny Runs
Just one Lion at Haworth for the second of this year’s series of Bunny Runs. 181 runners took part this week. Torrential rain earlier in the day and on the previous day meant there was lots of mud on offer. Despite the mud, Paul Patrick managed to knock over 30 seconds off his time from last week’s race.
Result: Paul Patrick 23:33