As someone born north of the border, complaining about the weather in the dreich and dreary depths of winter always seems a wee bit futile. BUT… last Thursday’s track night was verging on an outdoor swim and I can barely remember the last time I wasn’t soaked on a run. Anyone else yearning for summer?

Right, now my weather whinging is done, let’s get back to the task at hand. Racing over the past fortnight has been as sparse as the sunshine, but nonetheless there have still been some cracking Bentley performances to be proud of. So – drumroll please – here’s the latest race report…

Great Bentley Half Marathon

Where else to start but our very own half marathon, which sold out quicker than a [insert your favourite multi-platinum selling musician] concert. Huge round of applause to everyone who gave their time before, during and after the event to make sure everything went glitch-free. As race director Marion said on Facebook: “Thank you, thank you for all you help and efforts today, we’ve had so much positive feedback from runners who loved the race and really appreciated your support!” 

We saw some outstanding Bentley performances on the day, including Larina Marsh who ran the last half marathon of her 50s in a super 2:09:16, where she chatted through the miles with Tim Clifton [2:08:55]. James Eyre crossed the line in a smoking hot 1:26:25, while Pacian Andrews [1:43:11], Tricia Stacey [1:54:11], Piers Markwick [1:59:59 – a very satisfying time!] and Helene Tyler [1:42:29]  made it a brilliant day all round for our runners and our club.

Rochford Half Marathon

Mark Crittenden jeffed his way around the Rochford Half Marathon last weekend to finish his 26th attempt at 13.1 miles. What made his time of 2:44:32 even more impressive was the fact that he’d cramped up at 10 mile and took 45 minutes to complete the final 3 miles. An excellent display of running resilience Mark.

Cologne Parkrun

Fresh from his superb fifth place at the Windmill Way Wander last month, Dan Palmer ventured further afield to take on the Aachener Weiher Parkrun in Cologne Germany. After loosening up his limbs with a mere 20km warm up(!), he finished the world’s alphabetically first Parkrun in 11th place with an impressive 24:22. 

Felixstowe Parkrun

Finally, massive congratulations go to James Thompson who obliterated the 17 minute barrier at Felixstowe Parkrun, finishing second with an immense 16:54. Given James’ recent results, it won’t be long before he’s knocking on the door of a sub-16.

Well, that was short and sweet. Apologies if I’ve missed anyone. Now, back to praying to the sun gods.