They say that the sun always shines on the righteous. And so it must be true, as glorious sunshine bathed all the runners that gave up their time on Mothers Day to celebrate the life of Isle of Wight Road Runners member Roger Walker-Reed and his massive contribution to the club.
Following one of Roger’s favourite training routes, the 7ish mile loop started at Ventnors iconic paddling pool, the runners made their way along the seafront and cliff path before embarking upon the routes only climb.
Starting at Castle Road, then Gills Cliff Road, the runners made their way up all 800 feet of ascent to the crest of the formidable St Boniface Down.
But the view was worth the effort. Our beautiful Island was absolutely resplendent in the Spring sunshine.
“OK, so imagine the steepest hill you’ve ever walked up. Now imagine running up that hill for 3 continuous miles and when you get to the water stop at the top, they serve wine spritzers and peach schnapps! Only on the Isle of Wight are these things a reality!” Said Alice Baker, an unattached runner from Southampton. It was the first time she had participated in such an event, but judging from her picture, her and fiancé David, will be back next year.
But what goes up, must come down, and come down they did. Hurtling along Cowleaze Hill, down Bonchurch Shute and onto the seafront and back along to Ventnor Haven
First across the line was Paul Cameron, in just shy of 51 minutes. His first appearance after quite a period of injury, so it’s great to see you back Paul. First Lady was Woking AC runner Bel Levene in a speedy 56.08.
However speed was not the deciding factor in dishing out the amazing bling! (Roger’s family have kindly donated some of the running legends old running trophies)
Those who can guess most accurately how long it will take them to complete the course, (nomination), are those which emerge victorious. Thus making the race wide open.
So this years winners were…. (drum roll please!)
1st man: Graham Maitland 36 sec out
2nd man: Nick Scott-Denness 55 sec out
3rd man: Keith Ruth 1 min 57 sec out
1st lady: Julie Ray, Phillipa Daley and Sally Roberts 2 sec out
2nd lady: Angela Thornton 6 sec out.
3rd lady: Clare Mucklow 22 sec out.
Entrants also made up self titled teams of 4 for the final trophy.
1st team: GB – Julie Ray, Elaine Harris, Garry Sharp & Steve Hickman.
2nd team: Bats Out of Fell – Rosie Eldridge, Nigel Eldridge, Elaine Parry & Richard Melville
3rd team: Go Go Girls – Ian Dyer, Fay Tosdevin, Nick Scott-Denness & Clare Mucklow.
Most importantly, the event is a fund raiser for 2 charities in Roger’s name. Macmillan and SSAFA (providers of lifelong support for our forces and their families)
In total the runners raised a fantastic £515.
Great day, Great causes, Great bloke.
