A round-up of news from Aycliffe Running Club…
The first event in the Summer Tees Trail series of 5k races took place on Wednesday 19 April at Newham Grange Farm. Conditions were ideal for running and the gently undulating course took you round the farm area then into the woods before returning the same way.
Dez Fielden was first home for the club in 5th place overall and 1st in his category of male over 45, in an excellent time of 17:26. Next to finish was Dave Blewitt, 36th in 20:02; followed by John Burnside, 56th in 20:54, placing him 1st in his category of male over 60; next came Peter Smith, 80th overall in 22:25; Trish Kay, 97th in 23:59 and then Ray Todd, 170th in 31:32, placing him 1st in his category of male over 80.
A trio of dedicated runners from Aycliffe Running Club completed the London Marathon this year flying the ARC flag. First home for the club was Angela Barrett the lady in pink, completing her third and most memorable marathon, cruising home in 4.06.19. Ang comments: “I enjoyed every minute, smiling the whole journey!”
Next came Dean Barclay completed his third and most thrilling marathon to date, blasting through in 4.27.03, he is now looking forward to his 69 mile ultra-run in June. It was Mandy Heywood’s first marathon and she sailed through the finish line in 4.47.57.
Mandy began her running career 3 years ago when she attended Aycliffe Running Club beginners session as a total beginner. The sessions are open to all and meet weekly at the Oakleaf Sports Complex every Monday evening at 18:30. Motivated and encouraged by the session leader Rob Nicholson, Mandy has gone from strength to strength.
Why not come along and follow in her footsteps! Find out more at www.ayclifferunningclub.org.uk