From Alison Bennett…

There was a great turnout of 26 Ilkley Harriers at the fourth race in the Harrogate District Summer Race League which was hosted by Ripon Runners. The scenic 5-mile course started with a lap of the field at Hell Wath Nature Reserve before heading along undulating farm roads, tracks & footpaths through Studley Roger Village and the surrounding seven bridges, before returning to the finish on the field. The evening concluded with plentiful refreshments provided by Ripon Runners at the Rugby club, supplemented by hearty post-race chats amongst team mates and with other running club members.

Ilkley Harriers achieved some impressive results with Matthew Thackwray winning the race by some margin. Other Harriers to the fore were Matt Newell 4th, Harry Brook-Dobson 8^th, Ritchie Williamson 10^th and James Horrex 13^th.  Maddie Morris was Ilkley’s first lady to finish, and Peter Shelley was 1^st in his age group category.

This race concluded the League races, but it is not the final event in the series. These results will form the basis for the exciting Handicap Race to be held on Wednesday 16^th July, at Wetherby where prizes for the League will also be presented. Be there!