Race report by Sam Harper
Wednesday 5th April saw the first race of the spring 5k series – 3 road races of the same route, a month apart.
These series of races have always been popular on the racing calendar and have taken part for many years, but in recent years has seen a change in route and it is now a two lap course, starting from Herefordshire racecourse, along Roman road, through smaller less used roads to Grandstand road, leading back to the racecourse. It is a flat and fast route and often used by those seeking a 5k PB.
256 runners took part in this first race.
The weather on April 5th was not the most inspiring. There was heavy rain and it was cold and gloomy start to the race and getting dark towards the end. Those looking at a sub 20minute time were set off in the first wave at 6.45, followed by everyone else at 7pm.
This was a great chance for us slower runners to see the elites in action, but I fear the cold wet weather led to fewer spectators than there would otherwise have been.
Due to chip timing, all the results were combined to give overall results.
The winning time was Matthew Brunnock of Western Tempo in 15.15 and leading female was Lauren Cooper of Parc Bryn Bach RC in 16.55.
Croft results:
5 Eric Apperley (1st senior male) 15.28
17 Mark Thomas 16.12
18 Sam Juson 16.14 (5k PB)
122 Paul Parker 20.40
158 Olivia Hayman (1st FU13) 22.25
221 Samantha Harper 27.08
231 Mike Hayward 28.07
253 Bryan Markham 38.21
It was great to see Mike towards the end of the first lap/finish line to cheer and inspire and take photos!
