Squirrels Soar: Triumphs at Round Norfolk Relay, Coastal Ultra, and Hatfield 5k!

It’s been another exciting week for NHRR, packed with stellar performances, personal bests, and some stunning scenery. Whether it’s smashing PBs, conquering ultras, or enjoying a scenic parkrun, the squirrels continue to show their grit and determination.

Hatfield 5k Series Finale
The squirrels were out in force for the final Hatfield 5k, with Tom Barclay leading the charge. Tom smashed the 16-minute barrier, clocking in at an impressive 15:56, earning 2nd place in the series!
The Men’s Team finished a strong 2nd, and the Ladies’ Team took 3rd place with some superb individual performances: Rhia Botha 2nd V35; Caroline Thrussell (2nd V55, breaking Yuko’s V60 course record with a blazing 21:36; Lucy O’Connor 3rd V55; Linda Aird 3rd V65; Matt Sayers 3rd V40; Nick Malpeli 3rd V50; Pete Sibbett 3rd V60). A special shoutout to Ian Datlen, who achieved a PB of 17:59! Also, huge thanks to John Auld for the noisy cowbells and enthusiastic support. 

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Round Norfolk Relay
Seventeen squirrels took on the challenge of the Round Norfolk Relay, with Katie Harbon, Adam Wilson, Mike Bannister, Caroline Thrussell, Kat Burr, and Helen Ankers kicking off the first multi-terrain stages along the stunning Norfolk coastline. As the course moved inland, Georgia Head, Paul Bowal, and Vince Wright handed over to the night-running legends Ian Datlen, Mike Over, Nick Malpeli, and Alice Carty, who powered through 62 miles in total darkness.

​This effort was made possible thanks to exceptional support from Caroline Thrussell, Paul Bowal, Georgia Head, Kat Burr, and Richard Harbon, who cycled alongside the night runners for over 55 miles. Rounding out the final stages, Hannah Ridley, Lucy O’Connor, Jo Harbon, and Jennie Fraser took the baton across the flat Fens, completing the final stages to bring the team home ahead of schedule.  The squirrels not only showed speed but tremendous teamwork, with excellent support from both runners and cyclists to complete this demanding and complex event with style and determination.

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Squirrels Take on the Ultra Challenge
Our squirrels ventured into ultra territory with impressive results! Laura Fairbanks and Anna Gibson took on the Suffolk Coastal Ultra 50k, running from Lowestoft to Aldeburgh. This beautiful but demanding course featured a mix of terrains, from coastal paths to shingle sections. Laura completed her first ultra in 5:59 (official time), with Anna just seconds ahead at 05:58:58. Both runners praised the well-organized race, complete with flapjacks and crisps at the checkpoints, and enjoyed the stunning coastal views along the way.
 
Meanwhile, in the Lake District, Fiona Baker tackled the brutal Lap Ultra, a 47-mile race with a staggering 2500m elevation gain. Fiona battled through mud, bogs, and challenging terrain to finish in an impressive 15:31:34. Her resilience and determination shone through on this tough course, proving that squirrels can conquer any challenge!

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Trail Triumphs and Local Races
The squirrels were out in force across various other races this week. At the Sandridge 10k Trail Race, Richard and Georgia Harbon took on the scenic woodland trails in St Albans, with Georgia finishing in 1:07 and Richard pacing a friend to complete the race just over 58 minutes. The beautiful terrain made this a race to remember and one to look out for next year.

In the Zig Zag Half Marathon, Vanessa Rolfe embraced the unique challenge, completing four laps for a half marathon time of 2:51:28. With an array of post-race treats like sweets, coffee, and cake, Vanessa enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and celebrated her achievement.

At the Maulden 5k, Nicole Whitton raced through the picturesque scenery, finishing in around 28 minutes, keeping on track with her goal to break 30 minutes.
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Closer to home at the Stevenage 10k, several squirrels put in strong performances. Dervla Downing claimed 1st place in the V45 category with an impressive time of 50:53. For the men, Edward Birdsall achieved a swift 41:38, followed by Chris Tillbrook in 43:45 and James Dalton in 44:56. James Razey rounded off the strong turnout with 53:01.

Parkrun Roundup

Bedford: Kris Whitmore (20:00)

Clacton Seafront: John Russell (24:27)

Henlow Bridge Lakes: Daniel Mallett (22:53), Dave Braybrook (24:58), Philippa Hardcastle (26:12), Angeliki Shearstone (27:49), Hannah Keeble (28:08), Bob Davis (28:45), Sarah Mitcherson (29:46), Natasha Pitman (29:47), Helen Cairns (29:47), Jane Clarke (29:48)
Huntingdon: Frances Stanton (35:19)

Letchworth: Chris Stokes (21:51), James Dalton (23:30), Nick Walker (26:45), Viv Lucas (27:11), Steve Brenton (27:57), Philip Flack (30:30)

Monsal Trail: Christian Allen (23:56)

Norwich: Ellie Scott (28:07)

Reading: Tracey Palmer (32:03)

Sandy Water: Phil Hunt (25:17)

Stevenage: Matthew Sayers (17:43), Daniel Wrigley (23:16), Georgina Quayle (25:50), Jon Hunt (27:24), Barbara Sayers (27:25), Carina Quayle (34:44)

Teignmouth Promenade: Elwyn Howell (22:02)

The Great Field: Tom Barclay (17:10)

Wanstead Flats: Darren Matussa (20:36)