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Across Borders, Fields, and Fells – A Trio of Summer Running Adventures

15/6/2025

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It’s been a busy and memorable few weeks of racing, with club members taking part in a diverse set of events—from international half marathons to local trail marathons and everything in between. Here’s a round-up of some of the standout adventures on road, trail, and fell.
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From Copenhagen to Malmö: The Øresund Bridge Half Marathon
Miranda Morgan and Linda Aird (joined in spirit and logistics by the heroic Jo Kenlin) took on the Bridge Run Half Marathon, a rare chance to run from Denmark to Sweden across the iconic Øresund Bridge. With 40,000 runners, the scale of the event was immense—and so was the toilet queue, clocking in at over an hour! Jo, unable to run due to injury, saved the day by handling our drop bags while we waited.
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The route was truly unique: beginning near Copenhagen, descending into a 4km tunnel, rising over the manmade island of Peberholm, then crossing the vast sea bridge itself, finishing just outside Malmö. While the early sunshine threatened to make it a scorcher, welcome cloud cover kept the conditions manageable until the final few kilometres.

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Linda was relieved to finish in 2:26:15 after a stretch of injuries, with no niggles to report. Miranda followed shortly after in 2:41:18, both of them  grateful for the support and stunning views. A fabulous medal and banana awaited at the finish—though the bag reclaim and return logistics were chaotic, reminding us that organising such a massive one-off event comes with its challenges. An incredible experience... but they agreed that once was enough!
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Herts Hobble: A Trail Marathon Close to Home
Sue Foot had once again ran the Herts Hobble Marathon Challenge—a low-key, self-guided trail event starting from Baldock. The route wound its way through picturesque Weston, Benington, Walkern, and Cromer, offering a mix of peaceful paths, scenic countryside, and a generous helping of hills.
Without the pressure of timing chips or crowds, it was a great chance to enjoy the surroundings and clock up some off-road miles. Sue finished in 6 hours and 32 minutes, taking it steady and soaking up the calm, rural atmosphere. A tough but satisfying outing through our local landscape.
Rochdale Harriers 3-Day Challenge: Road, Trail & Fell
Dawn Power travelled north to join Rochdale Harriers for their 3-Day Event—a brilliantly organised and friendly series of six-mile races across three terrains.

  • Day 1 took them onto the roads with a rolling course to get the legs moving.
  • Day 2 featured a multi-terrain route that kept everybody on their toes.
  • Day 3, however, was the real test--Dawns first ever fell run, and an instant highlight. With gradients steep enough to justify a bear crawl and views that made every climb worthwhile, it was a thrilling (and humbling) introduction to fell running.
The whole event had a fantastic, welcoming atmosphere, and to top it off, Dawn even came away with a T-shirt—a well-earned souvenir from a brilliant few days of running.
From international bridges to local trails and northern hills, these events offered completely different experiences—but all reminded me of the joy of running in new places, the resilience we build with every mile, and the warmth of the running community.

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Strong showing in the forest leaves Squirrels well placed

8/6/2025

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North Herts Road Runners are now favourites to take second place in the Midweek League, after a strong set of performances in the latest fixture on Wednesday evening.
 
NHRR travelled to the Epping Forest venue in force, with 54 of their members turning out to compete against other local clubs in Division 1 of the Midweek League.
 
Despite the course featuring a challenging 140m of elevation, NHRR’s first eight women all finished in less than 50 minutes and the twelve scoring men were all under 41 minutes, with Katie Harbon and Mike Roberts respectively leading the Squirrels home.
 
The season is now at its halfway point, with NHRR looking forward to hosting the third fixture in Stevenage on 18th June. 

Men
4, Mike Roberts; 9, Sam Coxon;  14, Ben Sewell; 27, Shahab Ahmed; 31, Rob Jowett; 34, Abdullah Athar; 42, Matthew Sayers; 54, Stewart Overton; 57, Kris Whitmore; 65, Ian Datlen; 70, Mike Banister; 87, David Edwards; 90, Vincent Wright; 97, Oliver Babik; 101, Mike Phillips; 104, Oliver Parsons; 112, Darren Matussa; 116, David Brewer; 123, Michael Over; 137, Baljeet Sandher; 151, Peter Sibbett; 153, John Auld; 173, Sam Whitmore; 175, Ben Ryan; 189, James Godfrey; 190, Neill Jefferson; 192, James Walsh; 193, Richard Harbon; 195, David Weston; 202, Dave Braybrook; 228, Paul Bowal; 235, Andrew Robson; 239, Laurie Scott; 249, Rob Clarke

Women
2, Katie Harbon; 7, Rhia Botha; 13, Sophie Thrussell; 15, Tracey Pitcairn; 22, Rachel Arnott; 40, Paula Holm; 42, Paula Adams; 49, Katrina Slisane; 52, Astrid McKeown; 55, Sarah Hartley; 56, Verity Stow; 60, Natalie Phillips; 79, Jane Clarke; 82, Lucy O'Connor; 91, Joanne Hoare; 93, Grace Cleary; 94, Lisa Cuthbert; 111, Frances Stanton; 139, Karen Dodsworth; 165, Farzana Bhatti

Sweet sixteen for First Saturday
NHRR celebrated the sixteenth birthday of their iconic ‘home’ event – the First Saturday of the Month 5k, with 38 members enjoying the Norton Common course in unseasonably damp conditions.
 
NHRR finishers at the FSTOM:

1: Mike Banister (19:48), 2: David Edwards (20:09), 4: Michael Over (20:41), 5: Mike Phillips (20:54), 8: John Auld (22:10), 11: James Dalton (23:14), 13: Kat Burr (23:30), 14: Matt Ankers (23:38), 15: James Godfrey (23:45), 17: Mark Larwood (23:55), 18: Paula Holm (24:01), 19: Laura Fairbanks, (24:27), 21: Jillian Tooley-Boys (24:39), 24: Natalie Phillips (25:41), 27: Andrew Robson (26:44), 29: Viv Lucas (27:13), 30: Joanne Hoare (27:14), 32: Lucy O'Connor (27:25), 34: Tracey Pitcairn (27:30), 35: Rhia Botha (27:31), 37: Ian Datlen (27:34), 38: Alice Noakes (27:37), 39: Andrew Coates (27:38), 40: Adam Wilson (27:41), 41: Mel Flynn (27:47), 42: Frances Stanton (29:08), 43: Lorraine Nugent, (29:26), 45: Dawn Power (29:35), 46: Richard Barker (29:36), 50: Eugene Concannon (30:51), 51: Philip Flack (31:12), 54: Jane Morgan (33:21), 55: Julie Taylor (33:21), 56: Ian Sutcliffe (33:49), 61: Brian Judkins (37:44), 62: Jo Sopala (38:10), 63: Gill Hughes (39:03), 68: Farzana Bhatti (44:01)
St Albans Lollypop
David Brewer was delighted to record a new half-marathon personal best ‘by some distance’ at the St Albans Lollypop Run. David completed the 13.1 miles in 1:33:54. 
Brighton 10-mile
Vanessa Rolfe took on a 10-mile challenge in Brighton, crossing the line in 2:06:51.
​Parkrun round-up
Cassiobury; Daniel Wrigley (22:14)

Colwick; Helen Marson-Smith (37:43)

Harrow: David Brewer (21:01)

Henlow Lakes: Chris Button (21:33)
 
Holkham: Joseph Barker-sherry (28:14)

Letchworth: Thomas Buzzard (19:39), James Poulton (30:01)
Oaklands College: Matthew Sayers (19:10), Barbara Sayers (31:38)
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Stevenage: Mark Robertson (18:36), Kris Whitmore (18:59), Sam Whitmore (24:51)

Storeys Field: Chris Stokes (20:42)

Wimpole Estate: Lucy Hurley (29:07)

Y Promenad: Jon Hunt (23:59)
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Hard Half, Tough Ten: North Herts Road Runners Rise to the Challenge

1/6/2025

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This Sunday saw the return of the legendary Hitchin Hard Half and the equally formidable Hitchin Tough 10 Miler - races that are as notorious for their punishing hills as they are for their stunning countryside views. Undeterred by the challenge, eight fearless Squirrels tackled the Hard Half, while three more took on the Tough 10 Miler, proving that grit and determination run deep.

In the Hard Half, Rhia Botha powered across the finish line in 1:35:58, securing a podium spot as the 3rd lady and claiming 2nd place in her F30 age category. Close behind, Ian Datlen finished in 1:36:59, taking 4th in the M50 category. Rachel Arnott followed as the 4th lady home, earning 1st place in the F40 age group with a time of 1:37:19.

James Warner Smith crossed the line in 1:37:21, followed by Daniel Socci (1:44:15), Tom Bennett Makin (1:44:49), and Katrina Slisane, who clocked 1:47:16 to secure 4th place in the F40 category and 9th lady overall. Adrian Barnett rounded out the squad with a solid 2:12:15 finish.

Hitchin Tough 10 Miler, James Dalton led the Squirrels home, taking 2nd in the M50 category with an impressive 1:21:14. David Weston followed with a strong 1:25:43 finish, securing 3rd in the M40 category. Meanwhile, Joanne Hoare returned to racing after breaking her ankle seven months ago, delivering an impressive performance to finish 3rd in the F40 category in 1:36:01.

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Milton Keynes Marathon Masters Qualifier
Congratulations to Claire Fiske who qualified for her Masters England vest at the Milton Keynes Marathon on 5th May by coming 3rd in her Masters age category.  In 3:43:59.

Ben’s Yard, Ely
Joseph BARKER-SHERRY   30:29
 
Fire Service College
Tracey PALMER          32:38

Great Denham
Georgia BARKER   32:31    
Richard BARKER     32:33  
 
Henlow Bridge Lakes
Daniel MALLETT        23:14
Rob MILBURN     26:21       
Jillian BOYS       29:29         
Bob DAVIS     44:18
 
Holyrood
Emily YOSSARIAN                  31:28
 
Letchworth
Thomas BUZZARD    21:43
James DALTON       23:24
Richard HARBON     24:21
Andrew GRUDZINSKI    29:25
Adam WILSON          29:27
Paul BOWAL       29:30
Philip FLACK     31:00
Gregor BOWIE      45:56     
 
Linwood
Georgina QUAYLE    43:00
 
Luton Wardown
Julia TOFFA        31:57
 
Mersea Island
Chris STOKES        21:22     
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Mile End
Hannah BLOOMFIELD       33:32    
 
Millenium Country
Lucy O'CONNOR      25:05
Brian JUDKINS           38:16
 
Newbury
Jon HUNT       23:41
 
Norwich
Ellie SCOTT      28:18
 
Pocket
Kris WHITMORE      18:53      
Sam WHITMORE      22:02  
 
Pont y Bala
Andrew COATES       26:36 
 
Queen Elizabeth
David BREWER          22:22
 
Teifi Marshes Nature Reserve
Dawn POWER          28:40                
 
Weymouth

Joe DIXON          25:06
Vanessa ROLFE (new age category)     38:05
 
Wimpole Estate
Philippa HARDCASTLE         29:25
 
Worcester Pitchcroft
Mike PHILLIPS           19:20
Anna GREETHAM       27:54 
Matt ROBERTS              27:54
Natalie PHILLIPS        27:55
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Midweek League Race - 1 St Albans

25/5/2025

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Wednesday 21st May saw the start of this year’s Mid-Week League in Highfield Park, St Albans. 70 runners turned out from NHRR for this fast and flat 10K, giving us a super start to the 2025 MWL season with both ladies and men’s teams coming 3rd which put us 2nd overall after race 1, behind a strong start from the hosting team St Albans Striders.
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Katie Harbon was first lady home for the Club with Karen Townsend, Rhia Botha, Tracey Pitcairn, Rachel Arnott, Alice Carty, Paula Adams and Paula Holm completing the scoring team.
Scoring for the men were Mike Roberts, Ben Hadman, Sam Coxon, Ben Sewell, Andrew Leach, Shahab Ahmed, Matt Sayers, Abdullah Athar, Ian Datlen, Kris Whitmore, Mike Bannister and Oliver Parsons,.

Midweek League Rep Rhia Botha said “I'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you that came to run or support last night. We were definitely the best team there, if you ask me. It was great to see so many squirrels turn out and there were plenty of runners taking part in their first race for the club”.  Everyone was really grateful to Rhia for organising the mini-buses to take us to St Albans and as Carina Quayle said “It was great to chill and chat with fellow squirrels”.

​Full results for club are below:-
36:26  Katie Harbon
39:23  Karen Townsend
40:21  Rhia Botha
41:16  Tracey Pitcairn
42:20  Rachel Arnott
44:25  Alice Carty
46:00  Paula Adams
46:48  Paula Holm
47:11  Natalie Phillips
47:12  Katrina Slisane
47:27  Verity Stow
47:31  GeorginaQuayle
48:45  Helen Cairns
49:47  Jane Clarke
50:07  Lucy O'Connor
50:38  Lucy Robertson
51:19 Joanne Hoare
51:42  Ella Holm
53:04  Dawn Power
53:11  Frances Stanton
54:00  Grace Cleary
54:10  Jennie Fraser
54:16  Lenna Peltonen
54:53  Luna Miao
58:40  Natasha Pitman
1:00:24  Linda Aird
1:01:47  Karen Dodsworth
1:03:54  Lindsay Cook
1:06:41  Carina Quayle
1:12:43  Vanessa Rolfe
1:17:14  Farzana Bhatti
33:05  Mike Roberts
33:20  Ben Hadman
33:53  Sam Coxon
34:26  Ben Sewell
35:16  Andrew Leach
35:26  Shahab Ahmed
35:47  Matthew Sayers
35:49  Abdullah Athar
37:42  Ian Datlen
38:24  Kris Whitmore
39:36  Mike Banister
39:51  Oliver Parsons
40:08  Vincent Wright
40:19  James Bywater
40:21  Darren Matussa
40:27  Steve McKeown
41:00  David Edwards
41:47  Michael Over
42:34  David Brewer
42:41  Chris Button
42:46  Peter Sibbett
43:06  Baljeet Sandher
44:17  John Auld
46:16  Matt Ankers
46:26  Richard Barker
46:40  Richard Harbon
46:40  Richard Weber
46:59  Sam Whitmore
47:51  Steve Tracey
47:55  Jon Hunt
48:17  James Walsh
48:59  Nathaniel Rosa
50:27  Richard Thackeray
51:03  Phil Hunt
51:27  Paul Bowal
54:03  Laurie Scott
54:31  Andrew Robson
55:24  Andrew Coates
59:04  Rob Clarke
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Run The Wade 5K
Now in it's second year, this friendly, well organised 5k race starts in Biggleswade town centre and heads to Jordan’s Mill via twisty road and track before heading back into town. It has a nice finisher medal and a goody bag and all for only £10!  Out of 412 runners 9 Squirrels took part.  Rob Harris was overall 4th in 18:11, Hannah Ridley was 3rd lady in a time of 20:49 and feeling very happy with her time given that she’d had a month off due to injury.  Michael Over was 15th and 1st in his MV55 age category with a time of 19:57 and Lucy O’Connor was 1st in her FV60 age category in a time of 24:36. Despite having a tumble at 4km Rosie King valiantly carried on to the finish line after being seen by the St John Ambulance.

​Rob Harris 18:11
Michael Over 19:57
Hannah Ridley 20:47
Richard Barker 22:14
Dave Braybrook 22:55
Lucy O’Connor 24:36
Georgia Barker 32:39
Brian Judkins 34:51
Rosie King 59:57
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The Great Annual Bird Run - Oughtonhead Common
Thanks to James Walsh, Astrid and Steve McKeown who host this lovely event.  A 5k run/walk around Oughtonhead Common.  James with his expert eyes and ears spotting various birds en-route and Astrid for her delicious home-made breakfast afterwards.  It is always a delight to attend.
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ParkRun Roundup
Aldenham: Kris Whitmore (19:18)

Bury St Edmunds: Joe Dixon (27:10)

Cassiobury: Chris Stokes (20:43)

Clacton Seafront: Matt Ankers (23:33)

Harwich: David Edwards (19:40), Rhiannon Botha (20:07) 1st lady

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Dave Braybrook (26:08), Philippa Hardcastle (28:35), James Poulton (30:45), Bob Davis (45:00)

​Irchester Country: Tracey Palmer (34:24)

Jersey: Tom Barclay (23:44)

Letchworth: James Dalton (23:19), Chloe Lucas (24:13), Daniel Mallett (25:54), Paul Bowal (28:56), Alice Noakes (29:06), Andrew Grudzinski (29:26), Philip Flack (32:59)

Leamington: John Russell (27:07)
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Luton Wardown: Julia Toffa (32:34)

Manor Field Whittlesey: David Brewer (21:34)

Milton Country: Georgina Quayle (29:09)

North Walsham: Emily Yossarian (29:53)

Southport: Joseph Barker-sherry (28:31)

Stevenage: Daniel Wrigley (22:39)

Wanstead Flats: Darren Matussa (21:39)

Wimpole Estate: Lucy Hurley (28:44)

Yarborough Leisure Centre: Matt Roberts (26:15), Anna Greetham (26:16)
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Relay Reaps Rewards

18/5/2025

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​Gosling Stadium Welwyn Garden City was the venue of an extraordinary event last Thursday evening. The event was the inaugural 4 X 400mtr Relay Race. 
 
It was an amazing evening, a fabulous atmosphere with lots of cheering from everyone, even the spectators enjoyed themselves. Thank you to the supporters who came along!! 
 
Bearing in mind most of us have never run a 400 metre race, this was an eye opener!! Nevertheless, the spirit was there to compete and have fun. Despite the 400 mtrs being a tough race, the runners enjoyed it so much they would love to do it again. 
 
Taking part were 26 teams from Hertfordshire, 4 of which were from NHRR.
 
Senior Female Team - Kardasheruns
Katie Harbon, Tracy Pitcairn, Rhia Botha and Hannah Ridley. 
 
Senior Female Team - Les Ecureuils
Alice Carty, Natalie Phillips, Lucy O'conner, and Karen Dodsworth.
 
Senior Male Team - Quads of Fury
Stuart Cocks, Mike Phillips, John Auld and guest Nile Odejimi-Riley. (Ringer) LOL!!
 
Vet Male Team -  Chafing the Dream 
Mike Banister, Darren Matussa, Ian Datlen and Mike Over. 
 
Results
Kardashsheruns - 1st in group 7th overall
Les Ecureuils - 4th in group, 21st overall
Quads Of Fury - 3rd in Group, 5th overall
Chafing the Dream - 1st in group, 2nd overall. 
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Cambridge Biomedical Campus 10k
Sheila Leavy & Tom Kingham both took part in the Cambridge Biomedical Campus 10k, 5k– Sheila the 5k and Tom the 10k. 

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This was a chip-timed one or two lap race along traffic-free paths against the backdrop of the beautiful Hobson Park and the vibrant Cambridge Medical Campus. Sheila powered over the line in an outstanding 36:59, whilst Tom finished in an amazing 45:19.
As Nature Intended - Brocken Hurst Naked 5k
Elsewhere, Kris Whitmore ran the Brocken Hurst Naked 5k in Orpington, Kent, finishing third overall and second (over 50) veteran with a fantastic time of 19:23. The course was a tough but enjoyable three lapper through a mixture of woodland trail and a campsite, where the campers were waving (their hands) and supporting the runners. 
 
Kris noted that it was an unusual and interesting experience that you can't get at parkrun, however, he didn’t believe it was wise to share the race photographs! He was also glad that race numbers were drawn onto the runners rather than the more standard safety pin style attachment and that chip timing was achieved by virtue of an ankle bracelet. Enough said.
Parkrun Roundup
Jersey
Tom Barclay​​(17:27)
Bev Rimmer​​(28:24)

​Great Denham
Richard Barker​​(22:33)
Georgia Barker​​(32:35)
 
Coldham’s Common
Chris Stokes​​(20:25)
Jon Hunt​​(22:58)Leamington
John Russell​​(25:28)
 
Norwich
Chloe Lucas​​(22:19)
 
Milton Country
James Godfrey​​(23:04)
Frances Stanton​​(31:38)
 
Stevenage
Daniel Wrigley​​(21:30)
Joseph Barker-Sherry​(27:02)
 
Wimpole Estate
Shaun Allin​​(19:46)
Ian Datlen​​(20:32)
Paula Holm​​(24:10)
Anna Greetham​​(27:32)
Matt Roberts​​(27:33)
Philippa Hardcastle​(28:09)
Lucy Hurley​​(28:45)
 
Canons Park
Kris Whitmore​​(18:30)
Sam Whitmore​​(22:38)
 
Keswick
Andrew Leach​​(17:41)

Belton House
Carina Quayle​​(33:19)
 
Letchworth
James Dalton​​(24:12)
Laura Fairbanks​​(26:02)
Nick Walker​​(26:18)
Sue Vaughan​​(30:18)
Philip Flack​​(30:59)
Annette England​(39:26)
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Jersey Farm
Matthew Sayers​​(18:04)
Joe Dixon​​(26:09)
Barbara Sayers​​(26:11)

​Wollaton Hall
Helen Marson-Smith​(37:53)
 
Henlow Bridge Lakes
Thomas Buzzard​(22:10)
Lucy O'Connor​​(25:20)
Dave Braybrook​​(26:11)
Andrew Coates​​(27:22)
Emily Yossarian​​(30:05)
Helen Giffin​​(31:31)
Amanda Greig​​(33:25)
 
Three Brooks
Georgina Quayle​(36:59)
 
Dereham
Brian Judkins​​(37:56)
 
Skinadin
Richard Harbon​​(24:53)
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Greenway Challenge Weekend

11/5/2025

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Greenway Challenge runners support Headway Herts
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John Archer of Headway Herts, the North Herts Road Runners Charity of the Year in 2024/25, started off 145 runners as they took on the beautiful Greenway Challenge on Sunday with funds raised being donated to this brilliant local charity. There was a very touching moment with Sarah Chalmers expressing ‘delight to complete the course after herself being a benefactor of Headway Herts back in 2012.’ Headway Herts work to improve life after a brain injury for adults who have been immediately affected and the loved ones who care for them.

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The sun shone brightly on the route circling the Garden City estate with the men’s race won by MV50 Eddie Somers dipping under 90 minutes in 89 minutes and 30 seconds, closely followed in second place and first woman was Katie Harbon of North Herts Road Runners in 92 minutes and 55 seconds. There were 26 other ‘Squirrels’ running, and most were just taking the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed chatty run with their friends on glorious late Spring Day, cheered on by their clubmates on marshalling duties around the course. Race Director Mike Phillips ‘thanked all the helpers at Standalone Farm and out on the course for putting on such a fantastic event.’

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​Full NHRR results:
Katie Harbon    01:32:55
James Keogh    01:39:07
Rachel Arnott   01:40:49
Ian Datlen          01:40:49
Craig Cartier     01:41:34
David Brewer    01:42:26
Baljeet Sandher 01:42:37
James Dalton   01:42:37
Simon Clapham 01:43:08
Tracy Pitcairn   01:49:53
Rhia Botha         01:49:53
Helen Nuttall   01:49:53
​Daniele Socci   01:49:54
Chris Stokes     01:50:12
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James Godfrey 01:50:32
Daniel Wrigley 01:51:32
Caroline Thrussell 01:53:57
Katrina Slisane 01:56:29
Natalie Phillips 01:59:34
Lucy O'Connor 02:04:21
Laura Fairbanks 02:04:58
Gregor Bowie 02:05:40
Dave Braybrook 02:06:51
Andrew Robson 02:13:08
Jillian Tooley-Boys 02:14:17
Vanessa Rolfe  02:56:17
Brian Judkins    03:02:45
Phoenix 5mile Race​
​Stevenage Phoenix Running Club held their second five mile race. A number of squirrels participated in hot conditions on a course with little shade. Kris Whitmore was the first squirrel home in13th place with a time of 32:09 and said ‘fortunately there were two points to take on water en route and the event village had plenty more plus a very welcome ice cream van!’
Parkrun Roundup 
​Barclay: Matthew Sayers (18:49), Barbara Sayers (34:39)

Buncrana: Annette England (39:29)

Cliffe Castle: Ellie Scott (29:42)

Colwick: Helen Marson-smith (37:46)

Crinan Canal: Richard Harbon (23:10), Jo Harbon (29:10)

Exmouth: Jim Mcconnel (17:20)

Fulham Palace: Kris Whitmore (21:50)

Great Denham: Richard Barker (23:09), Georgia Barker (34:17)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Daniel Mallett (23:03), Rob Milburn (25:19), Gregor Bowie (25:20), Dawn Power (27:42), Andrew Coates (27:47), James Poulton (31:33), Helen Giffin (33:13), Sue Boys (39:58)



Hikarigaoka Koen: Bev Rimmer (31:23)

Jersey: Georgina Quayle (25:51)

Letchworth:
David Brewer (21:27), Chris Stokes (22:20), James Dalton (22:47), Daniel Wrigley (23:50), Laura Fairbanks (26:20), Steve Brenton (26:41), Lucy Hurley (29:43), Philip Flack (32:15)

Norwich: Chloe Lucas (22:08)

Pocket: Thomas Buzzard (20:27), Philippa Hardcastle (34:32)

Stevenage: Matt Ankers (26:08), Jon Hunt (26:09)

Storeys Field: Joseph Barker-sherry (27:48)

Wanstead Flats: Darren Matussa (21:36)

Westmill: Paula Holm (24:30), Ian Datlen (24:31), Anna Greetham (28:17), Matt Roberts (28:17), Joe Dixon (28:31)
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PBs, Podiums and Parkrun Galore

4/5/2025

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It’s been a packed and triumphant week for the North Herts Road Runners, with stand-out performances at the Hitchin 10k, midweek track exploits at the Resolution 5000, and squirrels spotted across Parkruns and the club’s own First Saturday of the Month 5k.
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Hitchin 10k – County Glory for the Squirrels
A big turnout from the club made for a fantastic morning at the Hitchin 10k, which also hosted the Hertfordshire County Veterans 10k Championships. The squirrels brought home multiple medals and team trophies, showing strength in depth and brilliant teamwork.

Tracy Pitcairn had an outstanding run, securing a new 10k personal best of 41:26 and claiming 1st place in the VW40 category, 2nd in VW35 County Vets, and County Vets Team Gold alongside Rhia Botha (41:31) and Kat Burr(47:42). Rhia herself was just two seconds ahead of Tracy, running the race as part of a longer 20k effort and helping the NHRR ladies clinch County Team Gold.

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The men also brought home hardware, with the team of Kris Whitmore (38:25), Michael Over (40:58), David Edwards (42:18) and David Brewer (42:26) earning County Team Bronze. Kris had a stellar day, finishing in 38:23 and picking up silver in the County V50 category, as well as a can of beer from the ever-supportive Bubbleworks crew on Hermitage Road!
Track Success at the Resolution 5000
Earlier in the week, several squirrels took to the track at the Resolution 5000 in Stevenage. Rhia Botha stormed to victory in the women’s race with a time of 19:39, while Kris Whitmore bagged 9th in the final race with a strong 18:38. Alongside Ben Hadman and Mike Bannister, they formed the winning NHRR team, showing once again that squirrels thrive on all terrains!

First Saturday of the Month
​1: James Keogh (20:6)
2: Michael Over (20:55)
5: John Auld (21:34)
6: Mike Phillips (22:18)
7: Ian Datlen (22:23)
10: James Dalton (23:35)
11: Adrian Sherwood (23:41)
12: Natalie Phillips (23:50)
13: Caroline Thrussell (24:59)
16: Viv Lucas (26:54)
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17: Lucy O'Connor (27:3)
19: Dawn Power (29:1)
22: Sue Vaughan (30:31)
24: Rob Clarke (30:48)
26: Jane Clarke (30:58)
29: Rosie King (37:52)
Parkrun Round-up – Squirrels on Tour
As always, squirrels were out in force at Saturday’s Parkruns. Notable performances include Ben Sewell and Tom Barclay flying round Cockermouth Greenway in 18:25, Matthew Sayers clocking a swift 19:09 at Castle Park, and Kris Whitmore sneaking in a cheeky 3rd place finish at Millennium Country in 18:53. From Wormwood Scrubs to Sunshine Beach, our squirrels continue to make their mark far and wide.

Full Parkrun results: 
Bug Hunter Waters: Chris Stokes (21:40), Jon Hunt (23:37)

Castle Park: Matthew Sayers (19:09), Barbara Sayers (25:13)

Cockermouth Greenway: Ben Sewell (18:25), Tom Barclay (18:25), Shaun Allin (20:15), Emma Sandham (26:06)

Coldhams Common: Georgina Quayle (23:22)

Colwick: Helen Marson-smith (39:46)

Great Denham: Peter Sibbett (21:22)

Hackney Marshes: Hannah Bloomfield (26:49)

Hasenheide: Mel Flynn (29:06)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Andrew Coates (29:19), Amanda Greig (34:03), Tim Banting (36:04)

Letchworth: John O'Gorman (24:21), Laura Fairbanks (24:46), Gregor Bowie (26:32)

Linwood: Richard Harbon (22:56)

Longrun Meadow: Jim Mcconnel (29:43)
Luton Wardown: Julia Toffa (39:31)

​Millennium Country: Kris Whitmore (18:53)

Milton Country: Joseph Barker-sherry (26:49)

Norwich: Ellie Scott (25:17)
​
Panshanger: Joe Dixon (28:09)

Pegwell Bay: Chloe Lucas (21:14)

Pocket: Thomas Buzzard (20:31)

Sheringham: Daniel Wrigley (24:25)

Stevenage: Christian Allen (22:53), Carl Goodrum (34:46), Carol Goodrum (40:38)

Sunshine Beach: Bev Rimmer (31:01)

Wanstead Flats: Darren Matussa (21:58)

Wimpole Estate: David Brewer (22:01)
​

Wormwood Scrubs: Tracey Palmer (32:21)
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Marathon Mania

27/4/2025

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Stellar Performances from Club Runners at London and Manchester Marathons 2025
It was a day of fantastic achievements for North Herts Road Runners at the 2025 TCS London Marathon, with outstanding performances across the board. Congratulations to the scurry of squirrel runners for representing the club so proudly  – what an inspiring day!
 
Leading the way was Tom Barclay, who delivered a truly exceptional run, crossing the line in an incredible 2:28:41 - a time which was teasingly close to the club record. He was closely followed by Mike Roberts, finishing strongly in 2:31:50, and Ben Sewell, who posted a superb personal best of 2:36:03.
 
Matt Sayers continued the strong showing with a determined 2:41:53, while Travis Kruger and Rob Jowett battled to the line together, finishing just one second apart in 2:44:45 and 2:44:46 respectively.

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While not racing in London, Ian Datlen smashed it, with a sub-3 effort at Manchester Marathon, clocking 2:58:18. Ian described it as an unbelievable day that was just amazing. Ian loved the course and the weather just about stayed bearable. Also running Manchester was Sue Foot finishing in 4.42.46.
 
Rachel Arnott was first woman home for the club, leading the charge with a brilliant 3:19:34, closely followed by Darren Matussa (3:21:47) and Alice Carty (3:22:08), both showing immense strength and pacing.
 
Chris Button completed his third marathon — and his first London Marathon — in an impressive 3:34:01!
He described the day as having incredible support and an unbelievable atmosphere.  Although it was just outside his personal best, Chris noted the warm conditions and lack of shade made it a real challenge. He also credited NHRR’s winter training for giving him the fitness boost he needed to take it on.
 
We had some great performances from Ben Ryan (3:42:43) and Andy Mutton (3:45:06) both broke the four-hour barrier with strong runs.  Matt Ankers (4:07.41), David Weston (4:27:35) and Greg Bowie (4:36:55) fought hard to the finish, embodying true marathon spirit.  With Lisa Cuthbert running her first marathon raising vital funds for Garden House Hospice and finished in an impressive 4:30.01, Hannah Bloomfield (4:53:05) was also running her first marathon having only started running last June and was inspired to run for charity in memory of her Grandad, Philippa Hardcastle (4:56:59), Susan Cadden (5:28:39) and James Dalton (6:20:10) showed incredible resilience and determination to complete the iconic 26.2 miles in the virtual marathon. ​
List of finishers as below;
Tom Barclay: 2:28:41
Mike Roberts: 2:31:50
Ben Sewell: 2:36:03
Matt Sayers: 2:41:53
Travis Kruger: 2:44:45
Rob Jowett: 2:44:46
Ian Datlen: 2:58:18, Manchester
Rachel Arnott: 3:19:34
Darren Matussa: 3:21:47
Alice Carty: 3:22:08
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Ben Ryan: 3:42:43
​Andy Mutton: 3:45:06

Matt Ankers: 4:07.41
David Weston: 4:27:35
Lisa Cuthbert: 4:30.01
Greg Bowie: 4:36:55
Sue Foot: 
4.42.46 Manchester
Hannah Bloomfield: 4:53:05
Philippa Hardcastle: 4:56:59
Susan Cadden: 5:28:39
James Dalton: 6:20:10
Parkrun roundup
Bedford: David Brewer (21:09)

Chevin Forest: Richard Harbon (25:26)

Coldhams Common: Georgina Quayle (31:39)

Colwick: Helen Marson-smith (38:21)

Fulbourn Hospital: Kris Whitmore (18:36)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Thomas Buzzard (20:45), Dave Braybrook (23:29), Andrew Robson (26:09), James Poulton (31:00)

Letchworth: James Dalton (21:32), Chris Stokes (21:46), John O'gorman (23:09), Jon Hunt (24:23), James Godfrey (24:42), Laura Fairbanks (24:50), Paul Bowal (27:42), Alice Noakes (27:42), Philip Flack (31:29), Carina Quayle (34:31), Frances Stanton (35:21)

Longrun Meadow: Jim Mcconnel (19:57)
Lowestoft: Viv Lucas (26:18), Lindsey Lucas (37:09)

Luton Wardown: Julia Toffa (31:19)

Momoi harappa koen: Bev Rimmer (29:07)

Norwich: Chloe Lucas (21:53)

Peel: Ian Datlen (24:57)

Stevenage: Paula Holm (23:50), Ellie Scott (28:47), Emily Yossarian (30:52), Gregor Bowie (33:44), Annette England (39:10)

Storeys Field: Joseph Barker-sherry (27:15)
​
Westmill: Barbara Sayers (27:22), Anna Greetham (27:31), Matt Roberts (27:32), Matthew Sayers (34:36)
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Easter Running Bunnies

20/4/2025

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The Easter weekend kicked off with a very special celebration at Henlow Lakes parkrun, which was the club's April  Run of the Month'. Many Squirrels came together to celebrate Ian Sutcliffe's 80th Birthday. In fact the high number of Squirrels helped to contribute to a record attendance at the event. The 2 and half lap course flew by for most and the celebrationscontinued after the race with tea and cake.

​Happy Birthday Ian!

On Easter Monday, over in Stevenage there was the Spring 10k and Half Marathon taking place. North Herts had some impressive results at the event, with PBs and Podiums aplenty. Rhia Botha won the lady's Half Marathon event and secured 12th place overall in 1hr32. Hearing Rhia describe her day it sounds like a very successful training run - “The plan was a good effort training run with David Edwards, but when I realised that I was in second place, I really had no choice but to put in a little more effort! I even got to run through the winning ribbon and bagged myself a gold medal. David Edwards was not far behind me.” David finished 2nd in his age category.
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Over in the 10k race, James Dalton was an age category winner in a time of 43mins. Dan Mallett achieved his first sub 45min and a highly respectable 4th in his age category.
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Whilst Steve Tracey ran 49 mins to be 9th in his age category.
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Further afield, Lucy Robertson completed her first 10km ‘race’ on Friday 18th as part of the Isle of Man Easter Festival of Running. Some 550 runners took to the undulating streets around Port Erin and Port St Mary on a damp and blustery evening. Lucy was hoping for under an hour but smashed out a 50min 57sec PB coming in first in the U17F category winning £20.
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On the other side of the Atlantic one of the oldest marathons in the calendar was taking place on its traditional Patriots’ Day, the Boston Marathon. Tash Pitman was representing North Herts and looking to also gain her 6 star medal for completing the 6 Majors. Tash finished in 3hr59 and enjoyed the special course, including the crowd and a helpful bagel at Mile 19 from a spectator which provided a needed boost after the famous Newton Hills.

The journey to get her 6 star medal started in New York 20 years ago - A fantastic achievement!

​​Parkrun roundup:
Amager: Anna Greetham (27:09), Matt Roberts (27:09)
​
Aylesbury: David Brewer (21:10)

Cockermouth Greenway: Emma Sandham (24:36)

Colwick: Helen Marson-smith (39:36)

Hastings: Daniel Wrigley (21:57)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Steve Mckeown (20:30), Ian Datlen (20:42), Chris Stokes (22:00), Matt Ankers (23:34), Richard Weber (23:44), Richard Harbon (24:03), Astrid Mckeown (24:19), Richard Barker (24:20), James Godfrey (24:27), John Auld (25:04), Michael Over (25:27), Rhiannon Botha (25:28), Natalie Phillips (25:41), Paula Holm (25:42), Caroline Thrussell (26:26), Lucy O'connor (26:30), Dawn Power (27:01), Peter Sibbett (27:02), Andrew Robson (27:44), Jennie Fraser (28:01), Philippa Hardcastle (28:13), Jo Harbon (28:37), Andrew Coates (28:39), Adrian Sherwood (29:06), Michelle Grudzinski (29:44), Adam Wilson (29:45), Andrew Grudzinski (30:01), Alice Noakes (30:02), Karen Dodsworth (30:07), Gregor Bowie (30:23), Helen Harbon (30:35), Katie Harbon (30:36), Linda Aird (30:40), James Berry (30:40), Frances Stanton (30:42), Philip Flack (31:09), Steve Brenton (32:09), Tracey Mccreath (32:51), Ian Sutcliffe (33:05), Amanda Greig (33:06), Helen Giffin (33:28), Helen Cromack (33:50), Sheila Leavy (39:14), Rosie King (39:18), Brian Bailey (45:02)
Hogmoor Inclosure: James Poulton (34:04)

​Hunstanton Promenade: Nick Malpeli (21:34)

Jamaica Pond: Natasha Pitman (27:02)

Letchworth: Oliver Babik (20:17), James Dalton (21:33)

Mersea Island: William Harrison (21:38), Laura Fairbanks (24:24)

Milton Keynes: Kris Whitmore (18:53)

Oaklands college: Tracey Palmer (01:02:24)

Pocket: Thomas Buzzard (20:16)
​
Roding Valley: Darren Matussa (21:45)

Sittingbourne: Matthew Sayers (18:06)

Stevenage: Ellie Scott (29:08), Emily Yossarian (31:09), Annette England (39:03)

Storeys Field: Joseph Barker-sherry (28:16)

Tamar Trails: Danielle Lister (31:59)

Westmill: Bev Rimmer (53:33)
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Flying Feet at Flitwick

13/4/2025

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​​Shahab takes silver for Squirrels at Flitwick
North Herts Road Runners sent an eleven-strong contingent to the Flitwick 10k and turned in some impressive performances on what Lucy O’Connor described as ‘a lovely undulating course which is actually quite fast’.
 
Shahab Ahmad took the silver medal in 34:44, reporting that he ran most of the race in third place, but ‘with a push at 8k and a kick with 100m to go I managed to secure a second place finish.’
 
The Squirrels also took third place in the female team competition, courtesy of Sophie Thrussell (42:05), O’Connor (50:59) and Nicole Whitton (54:23).
 
The Flitwick course is officially described as ‘undulating’, but ‘felt more like hilly to me’, according to Richard Weber, who was ‘pretty pleased with a time of 47:44, especially after a bad fall and rib injury two weeks ago’. His verdict on the race: ‘A nice friendly atmosphere with great organisation – recommended.’
 
Other NHRR results at the Flitwick 10k:
Shaun Allin (39:00), Kris Whitmore (39:36), Michael Over (41:52), Dave Braybrook (50:46), Meyrick Jenkins (61:36), Geoff Davis (63:01)

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Parkrun round-up
The Easter holidays saw Squirrels fanning  out across 21 Parkruns this week, with two first finishers –
​Matt Sayers at Penrhyn (18:19) and Jim McConnel at Longrun Meadow (17:12).
​Brundall
David Brewer (21:40)
 
Bug Hunter Waters
Matt Ankers (22:10), Richard Harbon (22:34)
 
Burgess
Kris Whitmore (18:53)
 
Castle Park
Steve Brenton (23:47)
 
Ferry Meadows
Joe Barker-Sherry (29:30)
 
Fort William
Daniel Wrigley (23:48)
 
Gunpowder
Darren Matussa (19:38)
 
Harrow Lodge
Tracey Palmer (32:13)
 
Henlow Bridge Lakes
Daniel Mallett (22:16), Tom Barclay (22:42), Dave Braybrook (27:13), Dawn Power (27:19), Jo Harbon (28:55), Sue Vaughan (29:35), Greg Bowie (31:29), Amanda Greig (33:05), Helen Harbon (367:06)
 
Letchworth
James Dalton (21:58), John O’Gorman (23:51), Paula Holm (24:36), Philip Flack (32:50), Bev Rimmer (35:06)
Longrun Meadow
Jim McConnel (17:12 – first finisher)
 
Newborough Forest
James Godfrey (29:45), Frances Stanton (29:55)
 
Norwich
Ellie Scott (27:42)
 
Pavilion Gardens
Viv Lucas (26:37), Lindsey Lucas (39:09)
 
Penrhyn
Matt Sayers (18:19 – first finisher), Barbara Sayers (27:12)
 
Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School
Jon Hunt (23:39)
 
Stevenage
Chris Stokes (21:53), Steve Tracey (22:24), Sheila Leavy (37:56), Annette England (39:29)
 
Wendover Woods
Jennie Fraser (30:43)
 
Weymouth
Natalie Lawrence (18:33)
 
Wimpole Estate
Scott Reed (29:35)
 
Yarborough Leisure Centre
Anna Greetham (26:39), Matt Roberts (26:40)
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