Red Rose Runners hosted the Worden Park 10k and Fun Run. With 35 runners doing the mile long fun run there was a great family atmosphere in the park. The annual race was dedicated to Dave Rayton, a stalwart of the club since its formation 30 years ago. Doreen Rayton, Dave’s wife was present to start the race and present the prizes whilst Dave’s daughter Janette ran the race wearing Dave’s club vest. Tony Booth another club member who died recently was also in the prolonged round of applause at the start line.
The winner of the fun run was George Buckley from Hyndburn AC in a time of 5.44, in second place was Emily Warren of Chorley AC Tri in 6.24 and in third place was Ameia Buckley of Hyndburn in 6.27.
The 10k race was won in emphatic style by Rob Affleck who took a commanding lead early in the race to finish in a time of 33.34 more than two minutes ahead of Robert Danson of Wesham. Barry Brock of Trawden took third place.
Kev Reed was the first Red Rose runner home in a time of 41.14 which hints at better times in the near future. Richard Oakley had a fine run as first Vet 55 in a time of 41.49. Mark Billington showed good form to finish in 42.39 whilst Jill Jefferson ran excellently for 44.33 but had to be satisfied with second F50. Vet 45 Mark Billington shadowed Jefferson throughout the race to finish in 44.36. Janine Needham took the F35 prize in a time of 44.40.
Frank Nightingale held off team mate Anneke Crosby to cross the line in 50.26 with Anneke close behind in 50.38.
Andy Speer recorded 52.53 on the 2 lap course which tested everyone with an uphill stage just before the 6 mile mark. David Wilkinson was well inside the hour with a time of 58.42 whilst Shelley Regan wearing number 222 finished 62.22 ! Well done to Samantha Widdop on a time of 64.03 followed in by Evelyn Elkington who finished first in her class with a very respectable 67.44. Cheryl Concepcion completed the course in 71.32 with Bernard Elkington and Dave Aspin bringing home the tail runners safely in 71.15.