Here is this week's fantastic run report written by Lauren Marsden.
Worsley Woods parkrun 23rd May 2015 (Event 169)
Given that the weather during the week leading up to Worsley Woods parkrun number 169 had been eclectic, there was no way of predicting what we would be faced with on the day. By some stroke of luck, conditions were perfect and a record 337 runners turned up on this pleasant spring morning. Of the 337, 32 were first timers and 99 recorded new Personal Bests. Representatives of 19 different athletics clubs took part.
Although parkrun is generally deemed to be ‘a run, not a race,’ Swinton Running Club had included this event in their club championships so vital points were at stake. As Annie announced at the start, this was a run for most participants but a race for those in red vests! After running two marathons in the past month, my speed work had been practically non-existent, so I was filled with nerves as we waited. I knew it was going to be a fast start and was not feeling terribly confident, but had to face the 5K demons!
As expected, the fast boys were off like rockets and I soon found myself chasing my teammate Ric who has been running amazingly well of late. I kept him in sight throughout the whole 5K but couldn’t catch him – maybe next time!! I was pleased for him that he achieved yet another PB. Considering my lack of shorter race experience lately, I was delighted to see my time of 20:36 – it is a long while since I ran like that and I came away jubilant and with increased confidence. The power of parkrun…!
There were many impressive performances and numerous PB’s – too many to write about individually; however, congratulations must be extended to Mark Whittington of Swinton RC who crossed the line first – a minute ahead of the second runner. The first lady was Megan Davies of Sale Harriers in an extraordinary time of 18:49. My son, Patrick, who has been struggling with his running recently, had a great run – he was thrilled with his time of 23:16; clearly finding his good form again. Well done to Lynne Davis of Swinton who was also pleased with her run, achieving the sub-25 she had been aiming for; IM training paying dividends for her.
There were 44 runners from Swinton RC present at the event creating a sea of red and keeping the club championships alive. We also welcomed a number of visitors from Winchester and hope that they enjoyed the course.
A fantastic photo was taken at the start of the event - Kevin Ryan clearly trying to fend off the competition from his teammates. I believe Carol is considering putting the photo forward for the parkrun photo of the week competition. If you’re on Facebook, look out for it and give it your vote.
parkrun could not happen without volunteers and I would like to thank all those who gave up their time to help out in any way. The runners really do appreciate your hard work. If you haven’t volunteered yet, what are you waiting for? Contact the parkrun office and sign up soon!
A special mention at this point to Tracy Gibson, who ran her 50th parkrun as tailrunner – thanks Tracy and well done on the 50! Also congratulations to Kath Sides who completed her 50th run and John Kerrane his 100th run this week.
Lauren Marsden
(Swinton RC)
Male placings:
Mark WHITTINGTON (VM40-44) of Swinton RC, was first over the line in 16:45 - 5th time in 26 appearances.
Alex BYSOUTH (SM25-29) (Unattached) was second over the line in 17:45 - was first to finish once before.
Daniel J BIRD (SM20-24) of Swinton RC, was third over the line in 17:50.
Current standing in the Men's annual points competition:
Mark BIRCHALL (Swinton RC) 1041 pts.
Mark CLEWARTH (Unattached) 917 pts.
George BATE (Fell Ponies) 893 pts.
Female placings:
Megan DAVIES (SW18-19) of Sale Harriers Manchester, was first (15th overall) over the line in 18:49 - first time in 2 appearances.
Molly PHILBIN (JW11-14) of Bolton United Harriers & AC, was second (37th overall) over the line in 20:23.
Lauren MARSDEN (VW40-44) of Swinton RC, was third (40th overall) over the line in 20:36 - has been first to finish on 6 previous occasions.
Current standing in the Women's annual points competition:
Theresa SHAW (Salford Metropolitan AC) 1041 pts.
Helen NATION (Swinton RC) 918 pts.
Jessica BIRCHALL (Unattached) 903 pts.
The following runners recorded the best Age Grade scores:
Matthew FLATTERS (JM10) was graded 82.64% for the time 19:06 (18th overall).
Mark WHITTINGTON (VM40-44) was graded 82.09% for the time 16:45 (first overall).
David BURKE (VM60-64) was graded 81.12% for the time 20:18 (36th overall).