19 September 2021 - North Herts Road Runners got more than they paid for at Brighton Marathon

Three North Herts Road Runners ventured to Brighton to take part in their first ever marathons on Sunday 12th September, 17 months after the 2020 edition was cancelled due to Covid-19.
The weather was wonderful for the group of club mates who headed to the seaside to cheer the runners on, but at 24 degrees by midday it was arguably a little warm to take on the marathon distance of 26.2 miles!  However, the runners were delighted there was virtually no wind, which can make seaside marathons a real slog.  The surprise of the day was the course was 568m too long, so they certainly got more running than anticipated!  First home for the Squirrels was Ian Datlen in 3:17.09, Shaun Allin 3:41.52 and Helen Cromack in 5:17.24.  Shaun showed his mental fortitude to battle through leg cramp to bring it home, and Helen crossed the finish line with a big smile, having not only completed her first marathon but also raising over £400 for Phase Hitchin.
Closer to home a scurry of six Squirrels ran the well organised Stevenage Striders 10 km and were treated to a delicious selection of cakes at the end!  The course started in Hampson Park, one of the highest points in Stevenage which they then had to climb back up to finish.  The return leg is an uphill slog, but at least conditions were perfect this year.   Lucy O’Connor reclaimed 1st in the veteran female 55 category from 2019, while also posting her best time on this course of 51:08.  Elwyn Howell ran his fastest ever 10km in an impressive 44:15 finishing 4th in the male veteran 60 category.  Other North Herts Road Runners competing were James Dalton, the fastest squirrel home in an impressive 42:13 with Richard Weber achieving his second-best time at this distance of 46:58.  Dervla Downing ran alongside Lucy and posted 51:03 and Rachel Downing comfortably came in under the hour in 57:47. 
All the best, Tash Pitman
 


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