29 August 2021 - Squirrsls storm to success in Hitchin 5km

A stampede of Squirrels representing North Herts Road Runners, based in Letchworth, enjoyed a short run over to Hitchin to run the 5km race hosted by their friends the Hitchin Hares.  The runners all thoroughly enjoyed the course with superb support from their friends and family in Hitchin's historic market square, with the two-lap course allowing spectators at least 6 sightings of competitors as the runners never ventured too far from the square.  Tash Pitman and Tracy Pitcairn repeated their podium first and second positions from the May 10km race in 20:07 and 20:53 respectively, followed by Sue Vaughan in 28:05, Hayley Cocks 34:16, Jo Kenlin 43:47 and Monica Cullin 49:03.  Tash was massively appreciative of David Weston, the Squirrels first male finisher, who provided a great pace to try and keep up with.  David commented “I set off like a bull in a China shop, weaving left, right everywhere. Immediately I realised I was going too fast” despite this, he was delighted to get a sub 20 minute time, 19:51, especially impressive after a fast London Vitality Half Marathon just seven days prior and his fastest time since his second son was born. James Dalton was the club's second male in 20:19, impressive after tackling the fabulous Letchworth Park Run the day before.  Stuart Cocks followed in 22:42, with Casey Walker 24:42 and then Geoff Pettengell in 33:51.  Most of the runners were comparing notes at the end for the popular First Saturday of the Month at 9am on Saturday 4th September, hoping to be able to improve on today's times.  
With Parkruns back for their 6th week, squirrels were out in force and using their holiday destinations as an opportunity to be Parkrun tourists! 
LETCHWORTH – Peter CLARKE 19:08, Philip HAWKES 20:56, James DALTON 21:26, Andrew UNDERHILL 21:59, Jillian BOYS 26:24, Bob DAVIS 27:19, Philip FLACK 28:53, Andrew ROBSON 29:15, Anna PRIESTLY 30:13 JESMOND DENE – Joseph SHERRY 31:30; WATERMEADOWS - Carl HASKELL 23:36; EXETER – Dave BRAYBROOK 20:36; CLUMBER PARK – Brian JUDKINS 35:07; WIMPOLE – Vincent WRIGHT 21:41, Tim BANTING 25:37, Georgina Quayle 30:39, Carina QUAYLE 34:53; YORK - Jennie FRASER 25:47; STEVENAGE - Ian DATLEN 20:51, Rhia BOTHA 23:32, Kat GOURD 25:22, Andrew COATES 26:00, Jane CLARKE 45:45