On Sunday 20th March the Isle of Wight Road Runners held the annual charity run in memory of an ex-member, Roger Walker-Reed, who sadly passed away a few years ago.
Roger was a keen runner and member of the Road Runners for many years. He has been described as an inspiration, a legend and a true gentleman and this run is to celebrate Rogers life, acknowledging his massive contribution to the club.
Due to Covid, the run hasn’t taken place for the past two years, so the IWRR were keen to hold the event this year.
56 runners turned up to run Roger’s favourite route which started at Ventnor Seafront taking runners past the iconic paddling pool and onto the 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 Downs (the highest point on the Island).
But what goes up must come down and come down they did. Flying down Cowleaze Hill, down Bonchurch Shute and then a run along the sea wall and back to where they started. In total 7 1/4 miles.
The first man to cross the finish line was Craig Wilson in a super speedy 51 mins 42 seconds and the first lady was Claire Pendreich in a fantastic 1 hour 8 seconds. Awesome running by both!
However speed is not the deciding factor when dishing out the amazing trophies on offer for this run.
Two of Roger’s running trophies kindly donated by Rogers family were awarded to the male and female runner who managed to guess most accurately how long it would take them to complete the course (nominated times), and the third trophy to the self titled team of four who, collectively, were closest to their nominated times. Thus making the race wide open.
The winners were:
1st Man Craig Wilson (48 seconds out)
2nd Man Steve Johnson (52 seconds out)
3rd Man Garry Sharp (1 min 11 seconds out)
1st Lady Nat Rose (14 seconds out)
2nd Lady Gill Bushell (1 min 30 seconds out)
3rd Lady Sarah Ward (1 min 58 seconds out)
Team
‘Don’t Listen to Garry’ (6 mins 7 seconds out)
Garry Sharp
Steve Johnson
Sarah Ward
Steve Apsey
Steve Bennett, Chair of IWRR, said it was a pleasure to be able to honour Roger by organising this run along his favourite route. “He was a true gent and a man who so many respected.”
Steve also thanked the Mill Bay for hosting the event and to all the runners for raising over £400 which will be equally split between The Mountbatten Hospice and SSAFA, the armed forces charity who provide lifelong support for our forces and their families.
A huge well done to everyone who ran and volunteered to make this run happen.
