From Sarah Hayes…
Photo credit: Mark Limon Punk Panther Endurance Events
Several Harriers tackled various of the Welcome Way Punk Panther events on Saturday. There were four courses to chose from:
Half Marathon, 20 miles, 34 miles and 50 miles. Seven of us, Clare Boyle, Lynn Donohue, Nicky Liptrot, Andrew Smith, Keith Wood, Alex Lewis and I entered the 20 mile event. We had done various recces together and planned to have a sociable race, running as a group.
Billed as 20 miles the final distance was in fact 21.3 miles!
We also enjoyed the company of a fellow runner from Northampton (who made it on to our finishing team photo!). He joined us in the early stages and stayed with us for the rest of the race. He was grateful for our local knowledge of the route. We were grateful for well needed support from various Harriers in Ben Rhydding and Burley. Thank you!
In the last few miles I sensed the pace picking up as Clare realised a vet placing was possible for one of the team but did they succeed? (See later…)
We stayed together and all crossed the finishing line within a couple of minutes of each other.
The 20 mile event (ahem 21.3 miles) is a great local route from Otley to Ben Rhydding via Askwith and Denton, then on to Ben Rhydding Drive and down to Burley. On to the Chevin to the top of Pool Bank and then back through the fields to Otley.
The last few miles were tough. Especially the last 1.3 miles!
A prize was achieved within our group as Lynn was placed first VW 60 in 4 hours 25 minutes.
Sarah Lambert also complete the event and is clearly well on track for her fast approaching London Marathon.
Alan Travis completed the 34 mile event in 6hrs 45 mins.
Ritchie Williamson completed the 50 mile event in 9 hour 48 minutes and was 1st VM 50. Congratulations Ritchie!