This week’s main event was the first Mid Lancs Cross Country held at Towneley Park. Red Rose turned out in force with several members making their first appearance on the cross country scene. First home for the Women’s team was Debbie Kirkman running strongly after this year’s marathon training, finishing in 29.36. Paula Plowman revelled in the wet conditions with a time of 31.09 with Joan Gouldthorpe and Glenda Dobie crossing the line together in 31.57. Anne Wallworth placed well for the ‘B’ team in 33.01with Sal cape completing the team in 34.11. Viv Sherry, Karen Clark and Sue Harrison completed a third team for the club times of 34.47, 37.10 and 40.31. In the Vet 45 category the club claimed third place and first in the V55 class.
In the men’s race John Shepherd led the way in 39.41 followed by the improving Ben Donoghue with a great effort in 40.12. Ken Addison put in his usual reliable performance with 40.54 before Phil Butler completed the course in 42.35. Phil Darwen joined the team for the first time finishing in 44.18 just in front of Paul Woan, 44.27 and Stuart Cann in 44.42. With 19 male runners Red Rose enjoyed the race and added competition that is different from the road races most of them tackle on a regular basis. Phil Davidson ran 45.21 being pressed by Geoff Haworth 45.36 and Barry Wheeler 45.54. John Allen put in a good performance to finish in 46.03. After a series of injuries, Fred Lynch made a return to racing, his time of 47.29 indicative of the time he has had away from running. Phil Dean ran 48.03 to lead in the remainder of the team with several new members mixing with long standing names of Red Rose. J.Hyde 51.26, A. Binstead 52.06, Alan Raby 52.26, S.Coey 53.35, A. Howard 58.09, M.Jeffryes 63.18.
At the Blackpool to Fleetwood 10 mile race Simon Houghton put in a good performance with 71.26 with Gail Hoyle finishing in an excellent time of 76.01 and Warren Hoyle running 83.35.
The Seaside 10K at Southport saw Aimee Midgley running the multiple loop and winding course in 66.07 and Matt Ashton finishing in 50.02.
Well done to everyone