Squirrels on the Move: Adventures at Stamford St Valentines 30k & Parkrun

As ever, many of members of team NHRR laced their running shoes and took to the trails and roads this weekend, continuing to support and inspire each other on their running journeys. We all know that, whether it's a challenging race or a leisurely Parkrun, every step brings us closer together as a community.

Stamford St Valentines 30k:  A Heartfelt Adventure
A group of intrepid squirrels embarked on a journey to Stamford to take part in the 30th anniversary of the St Valentines 30k race, and what an adventure it was! It was heart-warming to support this milestone event and witness the dedication of our fellow runners.

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Runners praised the impeccable organization of the race and the outstanding efforts of the marshals who guided everyone along the undulating course. Despite the challenging terrain, the breath-taking scenery and pleasant weather provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable race experience. As our runners tackled each kilometre, they were greeted by heart-shaped markers, each accompanied by witty slogans (such as ‘Don't wish it was easier, wish that you were better’, or the classic ‘It’s all downhill from here, apart from the up hills’ or ‘Pain is just the French for bread’) that provided much-needed motivation and laughter along the way.
 
Special thanks go out to Lucy and Brian for their unwavering support on the course—your encouragement was invaluable!

Here are the results:
Rachel Arnott: 2:14:04
Oliver White: 2:32:28
John Auld: 2:36:19
Laura Fairbanks: 2:42:26
Dave Braybrook: 2:50:07
Anna Gibson: 3:02:30
 
Congratulations to all our runners for conquering the Stamford St Valentines 30k with determination and spirit!

Ben takes the WIN at the ATW Love Welwyn Garden City 10k
​He described the conditions as perfect, but not a perfect course – uphill for the first km followed by a rolling 8km. Sewell tracked the leader before closing in at 8km and pushing for home. Despite spending the last km slipping and sliding on the mud and gravel around Stanborough Lakes, Sewell managed to finish in first place with a winning time of 35:09.

Parkrun Roundup:  Conquering Challenges, One Parkrun at a Time
In addition to the Stamford adventure, our squirrels have been busy conquering Parkruns across the country. From Arrow Valley to Wimpole Estate, our members have been lacing up their shoes and hitting the trails with gusto.
 
Here are the squirrels who completed Parkruns this week:

Arrow Valley: Rhiannon Brooks (26:30)

Fulbourn Hospital: Meyrick Jenkins (30:06)

Harlow: Darren Matussa (23:13)

Letchworth: Ian Datlen (22:08), Ian Harvey (25:20), Steve Brenton (26:46), Jennie Fraser (28:42), James Poulton (30:04), Alan Hazlehurst (32:48), Andrew Robson (35:33), Philip Flack (36:11)

Milton Country: Brian Judkins (36:46)

Newbury: Aimee Flack (30:59)

Stevenage: Chris Stokes (20:51), Andrew Coates (23:49), Emily Yossarian (28:50), Ellie Scott (29:12), Georgia Barker (30:26), Amanda Greig (30:52), Helen Giffin (31:38)

Teignmouth Promenade: Elwyn Howell (21:14)

Thames Path Woolwich: Richard Harbon (22:17), Jon Hunt (22:19), Jo Harbon (28:25)

Wendover Woods: Lindsay Cook (32:58)
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Wimpole Estate: Michael Over (21:44), Mike Phillips (22:05), Natalie Phillips (24:13)

Bravo to each and every one of them for their dedication and determination in tackling these Parkruns.