From Alison Bennett…
Ilkley Harriers hosted the 4th race of the Harrogate and District Summer Race League, where 366 runners from 15 clubs assembled at the start of the 5.1 mile course. After a lap of the field, the runners were directed towards Owler Park Road for the infamous climb before an undulating stretch along the track to Myddleton Lodge, and Slates Lane.
This was followed by a long descent of Carters Lane before the final couple of miles flat running to the finish at the rugby club where a pie and peas supper was served.
The race was won by Matthew Thackwray in 26:57 with a commanding lead over the 2nd placed runner. Michael Odell was 6th and Philippa Rawling was the first female for Ilkley Harriers whilst Diane Kitchen was first in her age-group category.
An event like this requires massive organization and pivotal in this was Neil Chapman who was supported by an army of volunteers in various roles including marshalling the course, first aid, setting up/clearing away, the superb team in the kitchen and many others. In addition, the club had another 28 Ilkley Harriers taking part in the race. It was deemed to be a superb evening of which the club can be proud. Even the weather which had threatened a downpour, stayed fine.