ATHLETICS: Grantham Running Club out in force at Grimsthorpe

Grantham Running Club sent an army of green vests to the Grimsthorpe ‘Beauty and the Beast’ 10 on Sunday.

Runners were spoilt for choice with races ranging from a 5k family friendly fun run to half marathon distance, with a ‘canicross’ option available for all 5km, 10km, 10-mile and 13.1-mile distances. A beautifully detailed, bespoke finisher’s medal, T-shirt and goodie bag were enough to lure runners to the finish.

Grantham Running Club members Scott Jones, Rosalind Sadler, Sue Swann, Tracey Smith, Vicky Willan, Justyna Gill, Belinda Baker, Angela Carr, Yvette Taylor and CJ Walker took on the 10km route. Nicola Cottam, SJ Willis, Caroline Davis, Jacqueline Jacobs, Paul Davis, Peter Bonner, Martin Carter, Gav Meadows and Nicholas Jones completed the 10-mile race, while the fearless Rachael Smith and Hazel Dunthorne battled and recorded personal bests in the half marathon.

The tough course was reflected in the times of even the lead runners and many of the Grantham Running Club who turned out, treating the event as a chance to experience a more sociable and relaxed race atmosphere, some who had raced less than 48 hours previously in the club’s own Summer Solstice 10k in Long Bennington.

First green vest home competing in the 10km race was Scott Jones. He ran an inspiringly strong 43min 52sec in his first race since injury and was rewarded with third place overall, his first podium finish.

Another podium place was for the men’s 10-mile team – Paul Davis, Peter Bonner, Martin Carter and Gav Meadows – who claimed first place. Other successes for the club were the 10km ladies’ team – Rosalind Sadler, Sue Swann and new member Tracey Smith who finished in second place. Tracey, who has clearly been bitten by the running bug, said she would wear her medal with pride all week.

The ladies’ 10-mile team of Nicola Cottam, SJ Willis and Caroline Davis, returning from injury, also claimed second place despite SJ suffering from breathing difficulties during the final mile.

The event was a testament to the spirit of the running club and the running community, with great support from fellow athletes, marshals and family members. Many runners left already talking about race strategies for next year.