From Alison Bennett…
A pre-race downpour didn’t deter the 44 Ilkley Harriers who turned up to run the first of the Harrogate District Summer Race League races hosted by Skipton AC. The race started with a dash across the long, wet grass in Aireville Park before heading uphill through residential streets. There followed an undulating loop of country lanes before a final downhill sprint through the park to the finish.
Ilkley dominated the front of the field with Matthew Thackwray leading Nick Hooker and Matt Newell for 1st ,2nd and 3rd positions. Nick Kealey was a highly placed 10th. Jane McCarthy 87, Lucy Kay 130 and Sally Malir 218 were the first 3 Ilkley Harrier females and Mike Williams was first in his age category. It wasn’t all about finishing positions. This event was a return to road racing, after a break of 17 years, for Phil Chappell!
Another success of the evening was seeing the swathe of red and green vests on the start line; Ilkley making their presence felt amongst the other clubs. After the race, refreshments were available to enjoy while chatting with club mates and other participants.
The next race, hosted by Nidd Valley Road Runners, is on Wednesday 17 June.
1 Matthew Thackwray, Ilkley 27:58
5 Jemima Elgood, Nidd Valley 29:54