Report by Mike B
ON YOUR MARKS FOR THE LEINTHALL STARKES. Yes, ’tis April – spring is in the air and it is time for the Croft Ambrey swallows to swoop on the small north Herefordshire village to kick off the annual handicap series, which was first launched way back in 1989. This, the first in a 6 race series conducted throughout the summer, always features a straight race with handicaps being applied thereafter.
Chairman Huw had requested the parade of a sea of sky blue vests adorning the start line, and we were treated to the sensational spectacle resembling a seasonal stream of forget-me-nots bobbing along the road – and who could forget such a spectacular display of running club unity.
Running conditions were good for what I believe to be the 130th run over this historic 5 mile course, plotted and measured all those years ago by our very own officially appointed course measurers – Tom Davies and Bryan Markham – using the accurate Jones Counter method. For the first time, this year, the handicap series trophy will be named after our greatly-missed and fondly-remembered ex El Presidente. I well remember having the pleasure of running in the very first of these races alongside Tom and Bryan in a field of just 8 trusty club members. Look how our superb running club has flourished and thrived from such a humble beginning.
There was no expectation of course records being set as a number of the runners are scheduled to run important Marathons just a few days hence, Ths, however, did not stop the leading runners from setting a brisk early pace almost hot enough to melt the newly surfaced tarmac, which had restored last year’s pothole avoidance route to a safer terrain. Eric Apperley, who will be gracing the streets of London on Sunday morning, led from the start and comfortably settled for a relaxed final burnout run. Despite taking things relatively easy to win the Mick Ligema Memorial Trophy by 37 seconds in the impressive time of 27.24. This bodes well for a successful assault on the Marathon. Gareth Leek accompanied Eric for the first mile or so, but then eased back slightly to coast home 2nd in the outstanding time of 28.01. Completing the top 3 there was a sensational welcome back to Sam Mayglothling, who has now turned 40 and is much more accustomed to competing in ultra-distance events. Sam recorded a time of 28.13 to slice 1.18 off his previous best set, on 2 separate occasions, almost 10 years ago. Sam has now climbed to 11th place on the all-time listings. Another, who was returning after a 12 year sabbatical, was Andy Davies who knocked 36 seconds off his P.B. set way back in 2013. Andy will be challenging himself at the Manchester Marathon on Sunday – we wish him well.
The women’s Mick Ligema Trophy was won by Kath Hardwick, making her debut in the historic race. Kath romped home , in 7th place overall, to win the women’s race in style by just over a minute in a time of 36.51. Welcome to CARC, Kath. Chasing hard all the way for 2nd place, and 9th overall, was a determined Irina Whitfield in 37.53, and completing the top 3 was the irrepressible Jo Tilby in 39.01.
9 runners were making their debuts in the event. The aim now will be to beat your times recorded tonight next time.
Not many PBs were registered, but there were 2 very notable personal improvements. Paul Parker carved a whole minute off his best time and a spirited Nicola Luscott savaged her previous best with a huge upgrade by a remarkable 3.38. Another extraordinary achievement came from Janet Hill, who was making her debut and set a FV70 course record with 49.59.
Finally, a mention for one of the club’ founding members. As I have stated Tom Davies ran in the very first Leinthall Starkes back in 1989 and has missed only a handful of the ensuing 130 events. Tom, you may be a bit slower these days – you still feature at no. 20 0n the alltime listings with a best of 29.23 – but I salute your tenacity, determination and strength of character. Long may you run.
Many thanks to all the marshals and helpers tonight – the event would not be possible without you.
The next event will take place, over the same course, on Tuesday 20th May when the handicap system will kick in.
