Thirsk 10-mile – Sun 13 Mar

From Sally Armitage…

Yet another single lap, chip timed, road race which ran out and around country lanes. This was the final race in my hat trick of races and despite not getting the time I was aiming for (I’d hoped for sub 1:05) I felt strong and really enjoyed it. 

There was a turnaround just over the half way point which, although usually a bit torturous, it was really nice seeing the lead runners coming back, such amazing athletes. Plus I got to give a wave to my Harrier teammates too! Iain Young continues to outdo himself, bringing home another cracking PB. Great running from everyone. 

In my next race my goal will be to finish on an even number, today pace and finish time were odd numbers, which I really don’t like.

From Dave Foyston…

The Thirsk 10 has been run for over 30 years now – a fast, flat road running course which lends itself to quick times and gives all abilities a chance of achieving a PB. In recent years the Club has hosted the North of England 10 mile Championship, Yorkshire Veterans Championships and the North Yorkshire Championships.

The race started and finished at Thirsk racecourse taking a circular route passing through the villages of Sandhutton and Carlton Miniott. The weather was dry but there was a strong wind with very little shelter.

The race started on a tight country lane – 866 of us packed in – so for the first couple of miles I weaved through the runners ahead of me while being gently buffeted by the wind from behind.

At the halfway point there was an out and back section on what appeared to be a disused airfield which was open to the elements and the only good thing from here to the end was seeing your team mates and shouting encouragement to them.

For the final three miles towards the end I tried to push the pace but just couldn’t find the extra required to dip below the hour mark.

A fantastic effort by all the Harriers that entered, well done.

I would definitely recommend this race to anyone wanting a nice 10-mile road race. It has potential to be a PB race if the weather is right but I still think Lytham is a slightly a faster course.

Results

1st male Rob Scott (Richmond & Zealand Harriers) 52:05

1st female Helen Cross (York Knavesmire Harriers) 01:00:26

68 Dave Foyston 01:02:05

98 Iain Young 01:03:54

122 Andrew Overend 01:05:17

142 Adam Gerrish 01:06:50

152 Sally Armitage 01:07:35

338 Ken Souyave 01:19:16 (2nd MV70)

866 ran