Races Entered & Results
It is nice to be able to
congratulate Club members on their achievements!
Especially when finishing is
quite often the reward you aim for.
So as members of the club
enter races individually or as a group we will report on them.
Llyn Alwen Trail Race, 2008 ~ 06/07/2008
On Sunday five members raced the Llyn Alwen 11k Trail race in Denbigh which was won in a course record time by the very much in-form Darren Blazier in an outstanding time of 40mins 16secs. Matthew Ashton, who like Blazier was running his second race in five days, produced a superb 42mins 23secs for 8th overall, while Ed Reid once again got onto the rostrum with a wonderful time of 47mins 35secs for 20th overall and 2nd MV45. Haydn Jones was 39th in 51mins 3secs, almost identical to last years time, while Robert Spotswood, another runner running twice in a week, also produced an excellent time of 55mins 35secs for 63rd overall.
Portland 10 ~ 06/07/2008
Peter Smith and Kate Williams ran the Portland 10m in difficult conditions, finishing in 150th and 151st positions out of 240 runners in a time of 1hr 27mins 16secs.
British Masters 5000m, 2008 ~ 06/07/2008
On Sunday, Sean McCormack taking advice from the much more experienced Hughes also won a British Bronze, this time in the 5000m, which was actually run in a thunder storm. Again mastering the weather, Sean ran an extremely well disciplined race finishing in a personal best time of 17mins 0.77secs.
British Masters 3000m Steeplechase, 2008 ~ 05/07/2008
On Saturday, Geran Hughes led the club by example and produced a Captain’s performance to win a Bronze medal in the British Masters 3000m Steeple-Chase final in blustery conditions. Hughes judged the conditions perfectly, starting at the back and using the many years of experience he has had in the discipline, worked his way up through the field, to produce a phenomenal performance, finishing in 10mins 58secs, a performance that was justly rewarded with a British Bronze medal.
Faenol Park 10k 2008 ~ 02/07/2008
On Wednesday six Harriers took part in the Faenol park 10k race in Felinheli. Despite the fact that the race is run almost entirely off-road, road specialist Darren Blazier proved his adaptability by running a fantastic race, finishing 3rd overall in a tremendous time of 34 minutes 43 seconds. Steven Boyton continued his recent excellent form to finish as first Junior Male in an excellent time of 36mins 54secs, while Matthew Ashton, fresh from recent successes in Triathlon, also produced a superb time of 38mins 21secs. Robert Spotswood, running his fifteenth race of the year and his fifth 10k, again performed exceptionally well, finishing in 46mins 20secs. The performances of the day came however slightly further back when Jamie Ashton and Sara Cassidy-McIlveen made a welcome return to the racing scene, completing the race together in 1hr 22mins and 5secs, Sara competing for the first time since the birth of her son.
Trafford AC Grand Prix 2008, 5 ~ 01/07/2008
In warm but very windy conditions on Tuesday night, Sean McCormack was the club's only representative at Trafford. With poor conditions times were down for everyone, with Sean finishing in 10:00.91, 20 seconds slower than his best. He was however 3rd in the B race, and 1st V45.
Riverbank Run 2008 ~ 22/06/2008
In the Riverbank Run in Rhuddlan, hosted by Prestatyn Running Club, Darren won his second race of the year in a tremendous time of 36mins 24secs, a time made all the more amazing by the very difficult terrain and the gale force winds. Just a minute and a half behind, again running superbly at present, was the up and coming Steven Boyton, whose time of 37mins 53secs was good enough for fourth overall and second under 20. Another Harrier in fantastic form at present is Matthew Ashton, who finished in 39mins 11secs for 11th overall, coming just four days after winning a “splash and dash” race for Caerneddau Triathlon Club. Ed Reid was next home, winning the MV45 category in a superb 41mins 29secs while Carol Willgoose was next winning her first race in her new category FV50, in an equally inspiring time of 46mins 44secs. Pete Smith and Kate Williams ran together finishing in a very good 51mins 33secs, while Su Calvert also ran very well finishing in 54mins 56secs. Alison Guillemin was the final Harrier to mount the podium, coming home third in the FV40 category in a wonderful 55mins 51secs. Steve Ward finished in a very good time of 64mins 17secs and Annwen Begley in an equally impressive 68mins 5secs completing a fantastic team performance within a strong field of 120 finishers.
Penny Lane 10k, 2008 ~ 22/06/2008
Three Harriers travelled to the Penny Lane Striders 10k, a 10k run over a very fast course normally, but on this occasion run in gale force winds along the Mersey. Despite the conditions John Earlston had an outstanding run finishing eight overall and second MV45 in an tremendous 35mins 35secs, while Geran Hughes was just twelve seconds and four positions further back in 35mins 47secs but with the consolation of winning the MV40 category. Haydn Jones however had one of the runs of the day, taking over 30 seconds off his previous personal best for the distance, by finishing in a phenomenal time of 41mins 7secs, just one week after running a mountain stage in the Welsh Castles Relay.
Parkhall 5k ~ 11/06/2008
On Wednesday two Harriers took part in the Parkhall 5k, run over a tough two lap course. First Harrier home, continuing his outstanding recent run of form, was Tim Cahill who finished in 17mins37secs for 7th position overall in a top class field and once again won the MV45 age Category. John Earlston made a very welcome return to racing, after several weeks out, and also ran very well, finishing in 17mins 45secs for 11th overall and 3rd MV45.
Birkenhead 5, 2008 ~ 04/06/2008
Three harriers took part in the Birkenhead Park 10k race, all achieving excellent times. First home, running superbly at present, was Darren Blazier, in 27mins 16secs, for 11th overall in a small but extremely strong field, and a 21 second improvement on his time twelve months previously. Not far behind, was Stephen Boyton, once again winning the under 20 category and 15th overall in a fantastic time of 28mins 39secs, just two seconds off a personal best time set on a much faster course. Third Harrier home was Haydn Jones, 41st overall, in a tremendous personal best time of 32mins 47secs, continuing his recent steady run of improvements.
Trafford AC Grand Prix 2008, 3 ~ 03/06/2008
On Tuesday, three Harriers travelled to the Trafford AC Grand Prix to take on the 3000m race. Geran Hughes showed all his track experience coming home in 9mins 38.00secs, for second MV40, while Sean McCormack was one position and less than three seconds further back in 9mins 40.93secs, for second MV45, taking 27 seconds off the personal best he set for the distance only four weeks earlier in the North Wales Championships. Steven McCormack, despite not breaking the ten minute barrier, had the pleasure of knowing that he took even more off his previous best , finishing in a superb 10mins 14.2secs.
Carneddau Fell Race 2998 ~ 31/05/2008
Justin McIlveen continued his assault on the fells by running the very difficult Carneddau Fell Race, over 9.2miles , with 4000ft of climbing. Despite the blistering heat and deep bogs, Justin came home in a magnificent 8th overall in a time of 1hr 53mins 18secs, less than 12 minutes behind the winner, Iain Ridgway of Eryri Harriers.
Dam Buster Multi-Terrain 10k ~ 01/06/2008
On Sunday Angie Hughes ran her second race in Pembrokeshire during a so called weeks “holiday”. On this occasion she ran the Dam Buster multi-terrain 10k, over a very hilly course around Llys Y Fran reservoir. Hughes ran an outstanding 46mins 15secs for the extremely challenging course, proving she is right back on form.
Coventry 10k ~ 01/06/2008
Darren Blazier was part of a six man strong North Wales team to tackle the Coventry 10k which incorporated the Inter-Regional 10k championships. His excellent time of 34mins 28secs over a tough course brought him home as the third North Wales athlete on the day.
Rhyl 5k, 2008 ~ 28/05/2008
Seven Harriers took part in the Rhyl SunCentre 5k which again this year incorporated the North Wales 5k Road Championships, with two members taking home titles. Darren Blazier was first Harrier home in 7th position overall in a superb time of 16mins 56secs, despite the poor weather conditions, easily winning the MV35 title. Not far behind was Stephen Boyton, winning the first, of no doubt many, North Wales Under 17 titles in a tremendous 17mins 23secs. Matthew Ashton continued his recent excellent form, finishing in 13th overall in a time of 17mins 47secs, almost a minute faster than last year, and one of the very few runners in the race to beat their last years time. Ed Reid was the third Harrier to win a prize on the night, running an excellent 19mins 25secs for 33rd overall and 3rd MV45. Haydn Jones and Keith Elliott had another excellent battle, with Jones just coming out on top on this occasion, finishing in 20mins 18secs for 47th, to Elliott’s 20mins 25secs for 50th. Rob Spotswood completed a fabulous night out for the Harriers finishing in a highly satisfactory 22mins 21secs for 74th overall.
Dinas Head Multi Terrain Race ~ 25/05/2008
Geran and Angie Hughes took on the Dinas Head 4.5 mile multi-terrain race along a coastal path near Fishguard in Pembrokrshire. Over a very tough, hilly course Angie had a magnificent run finishing in 42mins 51secs, even passing Geran in the last 200m, to win the FV35-44 category. Geran, on the other hand, being on holidays decided to treat it as a training run and ran well within himself (except in the sprint to the finish!!)finishing in 42mins 59secs.
Chorley 10m 2008 ~ 25/05/2008
On Sunday a team of four travelled to Leyland to the Chorley 10 mile road race, and together proved the strength in depth the club has at the distance, getting their forth man home before any other team, but narrowly missed out on the team prize to Preston Harriers and Wigan Phoenix. In extremely windy conditions where personal best times were never an option, the team was lead home by Sean McCormack in an excellent 58mins 29secs, for 6th overall out of 219 finishers, and first in the highly competitive MV45 category. Dewi Roberts finished in 17th in a very impressive 61mins 7secs, for 5th MV40, while not far behind Steven McCormack and Gareth Roberts had an excellent personal battle finishing in 62mins 29secs and 62mins 46secs respectively for 21st and 22nd position, with Steven also first Junior Man home.
Edinburgh Marathon ~ 25/05/2008
In Scotland Dave Edwards got over the disappointment of missing out on this years’ London Marathon, by running the Edinburgh Marathon. Dave smashed his personal best time for the distance by over thirteen minutes, recording an amazing 4hrs 1min 16secs. Alison Guillemin, who was doing this one in addition to London, also ran very well, and despite feeling ill for a large part of the course still finished in a tremendous 4hrs 33mins.
Eiddig 5 ~ 25/05/2008
On Sunday two Harriers travelled to Wrexham to the Eiddig 5 Mile trail race, which in contrast was run in perfect conditions. Over a very tough undulating course Haydn Jones ran a superb race finishing in 33mins 12secs, for 19th overall out of 110 finishers and 4th MV40, while Robert Spotswood also ran extremely well finishing in 36mins 50secs for 42nd and 6th MV50.
Egdon 10k ~ 24/05/2008
On Saturday two Harriers were part of the field of 200 in the Egdon 10k road race. Pete Smith ran magnificently finishing in 46mins 47secs for 98th, while Katie Williams finished in an equally impressive 47mins 28secs for 111th.
Ras Cader Idris ~ 24/05/2008
On Saturday Justin McIlveen continued his excellent form on the fells running the Ras Cader Idris, which has 3,000 feet of climbing over 10.5miles. Justin finished in a magnificent 1hr 40mins 54secs for 13th overall out of 191 finishers.
Trafford AC Grand Prix 2008, 2 ~ 20/05/2008
On Tuesday Night Geran Hughes again travelled to Trafford for the Trafford AC Grand Prix, running his best 3000m time for many years, with an outstanding 9mins 29secs, eleven seconds faster than two weeks ago. Running his usual extremely intelligent race, Geran ran a phenomenal 3 minutes 6 seconds for the final kilometre.
Moel Eilio Fell Race 2008 ~ 17/05/2008
Two Harriers took on the Moel Elio Fell race, a category AM race, over 8 miles and with 3000 feet of climbing. This year’s championship race attracted a huge International field and both runners ran superbly. Justin McIlveen finished in a fantastic 1hr 16mins 16secs for 94th position overall, while Ed Reid ran equally impressively, finishing in 1hr 27mins 49secs for 176th position.
Chester Half-Marathon 2008 ~ 18/05/2008
Tim Cahill, continued his recent run of superb form, to finish the Chester Half Marathon on Sunday in a phenomenal time of 1hr 19mins 9secs, two seconds faster than last year, and good enough to win the extremely competitive MV45 category in this International race. Also running in Chester was Sue Calvert who finished in an excellent 2hrs 10mins, hampered a little by the heat of the day.
Cape Wrath Half Marathon 2008 ~ 12/05/2008
On Monday, Meinir Huws once again ran the Cape Wrath Half-Marathon, this year run in very hot and windy conditions. Meinir finished a magnificent seven minutes faster than last year in a time of 1hr 55mins, all the more incredible given the conditions.
Market Drayton 2008 ~ 11/05/2008
On Sunday Darren Blazier and the Roberts twins were again in action, just two days after running the Christleton 5k, this time at twice the distance, in the Market Drayton Muller 10k, where Blazier ran another tremendous race, finishing 6th overall out of 734 runners, beating a number of Welsh Internationals on the way, in a time of 34mins 20secs. Dewi Roberts, despite going off course slightly at one stage, still managed an excellent 36mins 39secs for 16th overall and 4th MV40, while Gareth managed the conditions equally well, finishing in 37mins 25secs for 25th and 7th MV40. Grahame Shone, running his first 10k of the year, ran a fantastic 40mins 12secs for 52nd overall and 2nd in the highly competitive MV55 category, while Alan Lucas’s 49mins got him 267th and again a very high ranking in his category.
Christleton 5K 2008 ~ 09/05/2008
On Friday, six Harriers travelled to the Christleton 5k, which was again run in swelteringly hot conditions, with three of the six racing again two days later. On the night Darren Blazier was first Harrier home in a fantastic 16mins 7secs, a personal best by a massive 22 seconds. Not far behind, again showing his outstanding potential, was Steven Boyton who finished in an excellent 16mins 43secs, just ahead of Club Captain Geran Hughes, who was still feeling the effects of a 3000m track race a few days before, but still managed a very satisfactory 16mins 56secs. Tim Cahill was next in 17mins 10secs, almost exactly the same time as last year in much tougher conditions. It was a similar story for Dewi and Gareth Roberts, who both ran very similar to last year, and were very satisfied with times of 17mins 27secs and 17mins 50secs respectively.
North Wales Track & Field Champuionships 2008
On Saturday Sean McCormack came away from the North Wales Track and Field Championships in Deeside as a triple gold medallist, winning the North Wales Veteran titles at 400m, 800m and 3000m, while son Steven was an Under 20 silver medallist at 800m and the 2000m steeple-chase. Sean achieved personal best times in all three races with the highlight being a 62.9sec 400m where he won the title by one hundredth of a second. His 800m time was 2:24.6 and 3000m, 10:07.4, eleven seconds better than when he won theSenior Men's title two years ago. Steven managed a superb 2:27.2 for the 800m, a personal best by four seconds, and an outstanding 7:25.4 for the steeple-chase, where his was making his debut at the discipline.
Harlech Triathlon ~ 11/05/2008
On Sunday Jaime and Matthew Ashton competed in the Harlech Triathlon, which involved a 400m swim, 17 mile bike ride and a 4 mile extremely difficult beach run. In extremely hot conditions, Jaime finished in an excellent 2hrs 39mins and Matthew in an amazing 1hr 21mins for 6th overall and “Best Novice” in the 30-39 year old age Category.
Purbeck 10k ~ 07/05/2008
Pete Smith and Katie Williams ran the Purbeck 10k, a fairly flat 10k run in good but very warm conditions. Pete finished in an excellent 46mins 8secs for 131st, while Katie finished in an equally impressive 48mins for 170th out of a very strong field of over 300 runners.
Trafford AC Grand Prix 2008 ~ 06/05/2008
On Tuesday Geran Hughes took to the track in the Trafford AC Grand Prix open meeting. Hughes ran a fantastic 3000m race, finishing 3rd in the “B” race, and first Veteran Man in a tremendous time of 9:40.11, six seconds ahead of the next veteran home and almost identical to last years time.
Wrexham 10 2008 ~ 26/04/2008
Five Abergele Harriers travelled to Wrexham for the Wrexham 10 Mile road race that once again incorporated the North Wales Championships, coming home with several prizes including team and individual titles. The team went one better than last year, winning both the North Wales Men’s and Veteran Men’s Championship titles, having been silver medallists in both categories twelve months previously with the exact same team.
On a deceptively breezy but warm day Sean McCormack took 35 seconds off his previous best for the distance, finishing 5th overall and 1st MV45 in the open race, adding the MV45 North Wales 10 Mile title to the MV40 Half Marathon title he won just two months ago, in this, his first race in his new category. With only five men breaking the hour on the day, Dewi Roberts was 6th home overall in an excellent 60mins 18secs, winning the MV40 prize in the open race and gaining 2nd position in the MV40 North Wales Championships. Steven McCormack proved he is right back on form, when despite only deciding to enter the race at the last minute, he still managed a superb 61mins 24secs, winning the prize for 5th man overall in the open race and second Under 20 in the Championships. Gareth Roberts beat his last year’s time by almost two and a half minutes, finishing in a tremendous 62mins 2secs for 3rd MV40 in the Championships. Haydn Jones, despite not getting among the individual prizes, had the consolation of taking the greatest amount off his personal best for the distance, by slicing a massive three minutes forty seconds off his last years time, to finish in an outstanding 67mins 51secs.
Foel Lus Fell Race ~ 15/04/2008
On Tuesday two Harriers took part in the latest Fell race in the Eryri Harriers Tuesday Night Series, the Foel Lus four mile race in Dwygyfylchi. Club Captain Geran Hughes ran a tremendous race to finish 7th overall in a time of 25mins 6secs, a time that also secured him the first Vet 40 prize. Justin McIlveen, who is more used to the longer fell races, also ran very well, finishing in a very respectful 26mins 54secs, again well up the field.
London Marathon 2008 ~ 13/04/2008
Five Abergele Harriers were in action in the Flora London Marathon, all achieving fantastic times. The first of the two Official Club places had gone to Simon Grant who was running the distance for the first time. Grant had a fantastic run, finishing in a tremendous time of 3hrs 12mins and 36secs, a time good enough for 6th M18 overall, an absolutely outstanding achievement in his first marathon. Carol Willgoose, running with the club’s second official number, ran a remarkable 3hrs 38mins 2secs, despite being injured for the last few weeks. Alan Lucas, a veteran of very many London Marathons, ran his usual extremely steady race, finishing in 3hrs 43mins 36secs, an almost identical time to two years ago, proving he is right back to form. Pete Smith, running London for the second time, took an astounding 25 minutes off his previous best for the distance; finishing in 3hrs 51mins 48secs well up in the top 25 per cent of finishers. Allison Guillemin also achieved a personal best time for the distance, by over four minutes, with a superb time of 4hrs 16mins 39secs, another wonderful time, especially considering the horrendous weather conditions on the day.
Chester Spring 5, 2008 ~ 02/04/2008
On Wednesday eleven Harriers travelled to Upton to the Chest Spring 5 race, with several excellent performances. First Harrier home, in his first ever road race, was Welsh International cross-country runner Josh Dixon in a fantastic time of 27mins 56secs to finish 12th overall out of 296 finishers, and first in the Under 20 age category. Pushing him all the way, running his last open race in the MV40 category, and finishing just one second and one position behind, was Sean McCormack, who had the consolation of winning his age category and achieving a personal best time for the distance of 27mins 57secs. Another fierce battle ensued not far behind with sixteen year old Stephen Boynton and MV40 Geran Hughes being given the same time of 28mins 37secs for 18th and 19th position, with Dewi Roberts just five seconds and one position further back, having just completed a half marathon three days previously. Hughes and Roberts were also 2nd and 3rd MV40 respectively. Less than a minute further back, like his brother only three days after running a half marathon, was Gareth Roberts, with an outstanding 29mins 28secs for 25th, with Steven McCormack, who had made a return journey of over 200 miles on the night to get to the race, finishing in a well deserved 29mins 49secs for 35th. Keith Elliot continued his relentless improvements with a tremendous 33mins 40secs for 97th position, 30 seconds faster than 12 months previously. Haydn Jones also had a superb run finishing just behind, in 33mins 54secs for 101st, with Robert Spotswood running his best five miles in almost 12 months, finishing in 36mins 56secs for 149th. The only female Harrier on the night was Angie Hughes, who despite not feeling well, ran a superb 37mins 11secs for 154th overall, and finished a wonderful 3rd in the FV40 category.The Harriers also won the male team award on the night with excellent times by all.
Wilmslow Half Marathon ~ 30/03/2008
A trio of Harriers travelled to the Wilmslow Half Marathon which this year attracted 3,500 entrants and was run in very blustery conditions. First Harrier home, running his second 75 minute Half Marathon of the year, was the in-form Darren Blazier, who was rewarded with 20th position overall in the International field, with an excellent time of 1hr 15mins 49secs. Second Harrier home, again running superbly at present, was Dewi Roberts, in 1hr 18mins 59secs, for 38th overall and 6th in the MV40 category. Less than two minutes further back was Gareth Roberts, finishing in 1hr 20mins 49secs for a fantastic 49th position.
Runcorn Bridge 5, 2008 ~ 23/03/2008
On Easter Sunday, Haydn Jones and Robert Spotswood ran the Runcorn Bridge 5 mile race, with Jones completing the course in an outstanding 37mins 12secs, a time that was made all the more amazing by the fact that he had to turn back early on and return to the start before setting off again. Spotswood ran a very steady race completing the course in 38mins 46secs.
Crewe 10k ~ 23/03/2008
Dewi and Gareth Roberts ran the Crewe 10k, again achieving excellent times, with Dewi finishing in 36mins 18secs for 10th overall and 3rd MV40, and Gareth finishing in 36mins 52secs, for 12th overall and 4th MV40, another race that was run in very windy conditions, over a tough undulating course.
Fleet Half-Marathon ~ 16/03/2008
On Sunday Peter Smith continued his London Marathon training, when he ran the Fleet Pre-London Half-Marathon, finishing in an excellent 1hr 43mins 51secs.
Nottingham Cross Country Senior Men, 2008 ~ 15/03/2008
Three Abergele Harriers were on representative duty at the weekend for North Wales in the UK Inter-Counties Cross Country Championships and World Cross-Country trials which were held in Wollaton Park in Nottingham on Saturday. In the Senior Men’s race, Veteran Sean McCormack fully justified his selection for the seniors where he completed the very difficult 12k race in a fantastic time of 45mins 53secs, finishing as second North Wales runner home out of the team of five.
Nottingham Cross Country Under 20, 2008 ~ 15/03/2008
Three Abergele Harriers were on representative duty at the weekend for North Wales in the UK Inter-Counties Cross Country Championships and World Cross-Country trials which were held in Wollaton Park in Nottingham on Saturday. Two of the three man Under 20 North Wales team were in fact Harriers, with Josh Dixon, making his representative debut, having been running for less than a year, and producing an outstanding performance, completing the 8k course in 28mins 35secs. Dixon’s meteoric improvements have already been recognised nationally and he has been selected to represent Wales in the Home International Cross Country meeting in Dublin on Wednesday. Steven McCormack, making his fourth appearance for North Wales, also ran excellently, finishing in 31mins 20secs, an improvement of over a minute on last years time.
Moel Wnion 2008 ~ 15/03/2008
Two Harriers completed the very difficult Moel Wnion fell race, a category AS race, run over four miles with 1600 feet of climbing. Once again Angie Hughes ran superbly finishing in 54mins 4secs, for 4th place overall in the FV40 category, while Ed Reid also ran fantastically well finishing in 49mins 40secs over this extremely difficult course.
Lanzarote Trans Island Half-Marathon ~ 11/03/2008
On Tuesday, Darren Blazier achieved his second race victory in only a matter of days, when he won the Lanzarote Trans Island Half Marathon in an outstanding time of 1:17:43, one of his best times ever for the race. Dewi Roberts, running the race for the first time, was a magnificent third overall in 1hr 21mins 47secs, while Gareth Roberts still managed an excellent fourth position in a time of 1hr 24mins 4secs, despite going wrong on the course and running considerable further than necessary.
La Santa 10k ~ 08/03/2008
Darren Blazier won his second 10k race of the year, by winning the La Santa 10k in Lanzarote, which was run in very hot but windy conditions over a hilly course, in a superb 34mins 16secs. The club was very well represented in the race with Dewi Roberts finishing in a very well deserved 4th position overall in just over 36 minutes, twin brother Gareth, was just one minute and one position further back.
Farnden 10k 2008 ~ 02/03/2008
Haydn Jones and Robert Spotswood travelled to the Farndon 10k road race which is run over an undulating country course and on this occasion was run in windy but sunny conditions. Jones finished in an excellent 42mins 29secs; despite the conditions just 15seconds slower than last year, while Spotswood also ran very well finishing in 48mins 17secs, again well up the field of 150 runners.
Liverpool Half 2008 ~ 02/03/2008
On Sunday Dave Edwards continued his Marathon training with a visit to the Liverpool Half Marathon, where he completed the race in an outstanding 1hr 46mins 13secs, improving his personal best for the distance by 1 minute 18 seconds, despite some windy conditions on the course.
Pipe Dream 2008 ~ 01/03/2008
Geran and Angie Hughes continued their assault on the fells, by tackling the Pipe Dream fell race, a very tough Category AS fell race, run over 5 miles with 1700 feet of climbing. Geran ran a fantastic race finishing 5th overall and 2nd MV40 in a time of 38 minutes 5 seconds, almost three minutes faster than he has ever run the course before, and a time that would have been good enough to win the race just two years earlier. Not to be outdone, wife Angie, took 3mins 17secs off her previous best for the course, finishing in an outstanding 51mins 46secs, for 6th FV40, achieving a personal best time for the second time in successive weekends.
Welsh Cross-Country Championships Under 20 ~ 24/02/2008
Josh Dixon, running his first race for the club, had an extremely impressive debut, finished sixth in the U20 section of the Welsh Cross Country Championships on Sunday. Over the tough 6,585m course, he ran an excellent race finishing in a time of 26 minutes 49 seconds. His time was made all the more impressive by the fact that he had run a cross country race the previous day in Nottingham.
Moel Y Ci, 2008 ~ 23/02/2008
Three members were in action in the Moel Y Ci fell race on Saturday, which is run over four miles with 950 feet of climbing. The highlight of the day was a magnificent 55mins 1sec by Angie Hughes, which was 2mins 43secs faster than last year and earned her the fourth place in the FV40 category. Club Captain, Geran Hughes also ran magnificently, finishing in 40mins 52secs, for 9th overall and 2nd MV40. Ed Reid finished 30th overall in a tremendous time of 48mins 45secs, an improvement of 31 seconds on last year’s time.
Wrexham Half-Marathon 2008 ~ 17/02/2008
Abergele Harriers can boast two new North Wales Champions for 2008 with Darren Blazier and Sean McCormack both winning their age group titles for the Half Marathon distance, when they were part of a ten strong team that travelled to Wrexham for the Village Bakery Half Marathon on Sunday, on a day that saw personal best times for four of the ten. Blazier ran a superb race finishing in 1hr 15mins 11secs for 8th overall in the open race, earning him 1st MV35 and 3rd Senior Male in the North Wales Championships. McCormack managed to take a full minute off his previous best for the distance, finishing just two positions further back in 1hr 15mins 48secs, winning him the North Wales title in the MV40 category, a time good enough also for 10th overall and 2nd MV40 in the open race. Pushing him all the way, was Dewi Roberts, who smashed his personal best by 1min 37secs, finishing in a fantastic 1hr 16mins 13secs, for 15th overall and 3rd MV40 in the open race. Gareth Roberts also ran magnificently, finishing in 1hr 18mins 20secs for 28th overall, taking a superb 1min 10secs off his previous best, while John Earlston, who unfortunately hadn’t managed to get the distance training in since his injury before Christmas, still managed a very creditable 1hr 18mins 38secs for 30th position. Simon Grant, who is currently training for the London Marathon, proved his training is right on schedule, with a fantastic 1hr 30mins 52secs, over four minutes faster than he previously ran for the distance, and was rewards with the 3rd Junior Man prize in the open race and Silver Medal in the U23 category in the North Wales Championships. Haydn Jones, also training for a marathon later in the year, ran a very steady 1hr 32mins 45secs, for an excellent 189th overall out of the 525 finishers. Rob Spotswood, celebrated his last day in the MV45 category, with a fantastic time of 1hr 38mins 39secs, his best time for the distance since the Lake Vyrnwy Half four years ago. Pete Smith and Alan Lucas had their own personal battle finishing in excellent times of 1hr 40mins 37secs and 1hr 40mins 51secs respectively, with Lucas having the consolation that he had run his fastest Half Marathon since the Four Villages Half in 2003.
Nick Beer 2008 ~ 10/02/2008
Ten Harriers took part in the Nick Beer 10k in Llandudno, including three members who had raced in Oswestry. On a bitterly cold, misty day, John Earlston ran an outstanding 35mins 11secs for the very difficult course, for 5th position overall and first in the MV45 category, while John Ford was only seventeen seconds further back in seventh position overall and first in the MV35 category. Keith Elliott also ran very well finishing in 42mins 55secs for 112th, almost a minute faster than last year, while Robert Spotswood despite an injury was one of those who raced for the club on consecutive days, and finished in an excellent 46mins 36secs for 197th. Philip Stevens, a relative new-comer to racing, finished in 202nd position in a very satisfactory 46mins 45secs, while Peter Smith again made the long journey to represent the club, finishing in 47mins 13secs for 216th. David Edwards finished in 48mins 12secs for 249th, while Allison Guillemin lead the ladies home in 54mins 35secs, again racing twice in two days. Julie Jones also followed up the previous days racing with a superb performance, finishing in 69mins 49secs while Annwen Begley completed an excellent weekend for the Harriers finishing in 71mins 19secs.
Tarren Hendre Fell Race ~ 02/02/2008
Justin McIlveen continued his assault on the fells with a tremendous run in the Tarren Hendre Fell Race, over six miles and with 2000 feet of climbing.Justin cam home a magnificent 4th overall in a time of 57mins 5secs, a superb time for such a tough course.
Menai Mini Marathon 2008 ~ 27/01/2008
Robert Spotswood took part in the Menai 10k, one of the toughest 10k races in North Wales, and finished an excellent 45mins 47secs, well up the field of 115 runners. The race was run again this year in good conditions.
North Wales Cross Country Championships
Saturday was one of the greatest days in the history of Abergele Harriers when the male cross-country team became both Veteran and Overall North Wales Cross-Country Champions at the championship meeting in Northop College. The victories proved the strength in depth of the cross country team, as they became overall and veteran champions, despite not winning a single individual prize. Over a very tough four lap course, run in perfect conditions, the men’s team was lead home by Club Captain Geran Hughes in a fantastic 37mins 42secs for eighth place overall and 4th MV40, shadowed all the way by Cross-Country Manager Sean McCormack, who finished just one position and nineteen seconds further back. The champion Veteran team was completed by Tim Cahill who, despite just returning from injury, managed a fantastic 39mins 47secs, just missing out on an individual category prize. Matthew Ashton followed very closely behind, also finishing very strongly in a superb time of 39mins 47secs with the six-man Overall champions’ team being completed by tremendous performances from Haydn Jones and Dave Edwards. While the Senior and Veteran men ran four laps, the under-20s and MV60s completed a three lap course, with Steven McCormack running very well finishing sixth in the highly competitive under 20 category. Alan Lucas, just one week after completing the Santa Pola Half-Marathon in Spain, also just missed out on individual honours, finishing his race in an outstanding 37mins 18secs. Unfortunately only one lady turned out on the day, but what was lacking in quantity certainly wasn’t lacking in quality, with Angie Hughes running a fantastic race, finishing in 26mins 42secs, for 4th in her age Category.
Santa Pola Half-Marathon ~ 20/01/2008
Two Harriers travelled to the Santa Pola Half-Marathon which took place about ten miles outside Alicante. In a field of 5,500 runners Grahame Shone once again proved himself best in his age group, winning the MV55 Category in a superb 1hr 27mins 59secs, a fantastic time, especially in temperatures of over 20 degrees centigrade. Alan Lucas also ran, doing the club proud with a tremendous 1hr 45mins, again well up his age category. This was Grahame's second victory on the continent.
Twin Piers 2008 ~ 19/01/2008
Darren Blazier had the greatest race triumph of his career by winning the 2008 Twin Piers race on Saturday, in an outstanding time of 33mins 13secs, 36 seconds clear of his nearest rival. Darren was one of thirteen Harriers in the race, five winning prizes. In excellent conditions, Darren ran a superb race easing ahead of all competition soon after half way. John Ford also ran a fantastic race, finishing in 35mins 20secs for ninth position overall and second MV35. Very close behind was the in-form Dewi Roberts, in a tremendous 35mins 43secs, for 12position overall and securing second position in the hotly contested MV40 category, just two positions ahead of twin brother Gareth, in 36mins 37secs, who was third in the same category. Richie Lee made a welcome return to racing finishing in a very satisfactory 38mins 42secs, for 24th position, while Keith Elliott, was just outside his personal best time for the distance, but had the consolation of knowing that his time of 42mins 48secs earned him third position in the MV45 category. Robert Spotswood ran eleven seconds faster than last year, finishing in an excellent 44mins 11secs, while Philip Stevens made his début for the club finishing if a fabulous 46mins 2secs for 91st position. Dave Edwards improved by over a minute on his last years time to finish in 47mins 32secs for 110th, while Sue Calvert went even better, not only beating her last years time by over three minutes, but also gets a personal best time for the distance by 25 seconds, with an outstanding 50mins 42secs for 151st position. Cheryl Richards, racing the distance for only the second time ever, managed to improve her previous best by over five minutes, finishing in 58mins 20secs for 206th, while Sonia Wignall beat her previous best by also exactly the same amount with a tremendous 61mins 29secs for 222nd. Stevie Ward, a veteran of hundreds of races, finished between the two ladies, just dipping under the hour, in 59mins 57secs, for 210th position. The men’s team missed out on the team prize by the narrowest of margins, finishing equal to Eryri Harriers on points, but 17secs behind in time. see photos on photos page.
Full results are available here
Milborne 10 ~ 13/01/2008
Pete Smith took part in the Milborne 10 mile road race, run in cold, wet and windy conditions over a very hilly course, but still managed a very reasonable time of 1hr 26mins 30secs, as he prepares for this years Flora London Marathon.
Sale 5, 2007 ~ 30/12/2007
Four Abergele Harriers finished off the year in style by travelling to the Sale 5 mile road race on Sunday, none more so than “Club Member of the Year” Darren Blazier, who justified his recent award, by producing probably the greatest race performance of his career to date, and possibly the best by a Harrier all year. In the race of a lifetime Blazier managed to destroy his previous personal best for the distance by over a minute, something almost unheard of at this level. Blazier’s time of 26mins 15secs was good enough for 21st overall out of 288 runners of exceptional standard, and crowned a phenomenal year for the Borders League Captain. Dewi Roberts also had an excellent run, finishing in 28mins 35secs, for 39th overall, 4th MV40 and his second best time ever for the distance. Gareth Roberts also produced his second best time ever, just ten seconds off a personal best, by finishing in a tremendous 29mins 11secs for 46th overall and 6th MV40. Richie Lee completed the quartet, and despite running only his third race of the year, was only 24 seconds down on last years time, by finishing in 30mins 37secs, for 64th overall and 10th MV40.
Llanberis Round the Lake Christmas Run ~ 23/12/2007
Rob Spotswood ran the 5.6k Llanberis Round the Lake race, a Christmas run organised by Eryri Harriers with many of the 100 participants dressed in fancy dress. A fun race, mainly off road and run over a very tough course by elves, reindeer and Santas, with Rob managing an excellent time of 47mins 44secs. Justin McIlveen, two days after being crowned "Most Improved Athlete", had obviously celebrated too much, finishing in 38mins 30 secs, a minute and a half slower than last year, despite leading the race after a mile!
Helana Tipping 10k 2007 ~ 16/12/2007
On the same day as Telford, five Harriers took the shorter journey to Wrexham for the Helena Tipping 10k with half of the contingent also running personal best times. First Harrier home, continuing his recent fantastic form, was Justin McIlveen, with a brilliant time of 37mins 10secs, for 20th position overall. Keith Elliott also ran very well in very cold conditions, finishing in 43mins 30secs, with Robert Spotswood less than a minute behind in 44mins 20secs, well up the field of 351 runners. The sixth and final personal best of the day came from Peter Smith, who finished in 44mins 41secs, again smashing his previous best for the distance. Carol Willgoose also managed a fantastic time of just over 42 minutes.
Telford 10k 2007 ~ 16/12/2007
Six Harriers travelled to Telford, running in perfect conditions, over a fast flat course. First home in a tremendous personal best time of 33mins 51secs was Darren Blazier for 43rd position overall in an extremely high quality field of over 500 runners. Geran Hughes proved he is right back on form, producing a time of 35mins 18secs, his fastest as a veteran and good enough for third V40 and 60th position overall. Not far behind, breaking the elusive 36 minute barrier for the first time, was Dewi Roberts, in 35mins 37secs for 6th V40 (69th overall), while brother Gareth also produced a personal best time, finishing in an outstanding 36mins 25secs for 8th V40 and 81st overall. Angie Hughes, the only female Harrier in action in Telford managed to find the biggest personal improvement of the day, slicing an amazing 49 seconds off her previous best for the distance, by finishing in 44 minutes 57 seconds for 4th Veteran Lady overall. John Earlston unfortunately had to pull out with injury after just a mile while in a very strong position.
Welsh Inter-Regional Cross-Country Championships, 2007.
Four Harriers travelled to Cardiff to represent North Wales in the Welsh Inter-Regional Cross Country Championships, all four Harriers acquitted themselves fantastically well with the highlight of the day coming in the 7.4k Under 20 race where Steven McCormack ran a tremendous race to finish in a time of 28mins 45secs for 9th overall, and 3rd counter for the region, in a highly competitive field, to help the North secure a memorable victory in the category. His father Sean, also ran very well, securing his highest ever position in the Inter-Regional Championships, with a time of 37mins 53secs for the 9.9k race, finishing 14th overall and 4th for the region, in the V40-50 race, and also finishing 5th in the Welsh Masters MV40 Category. Justin McIlveen, making his regional debut, also ran excellently, finishing in a superb time of 39mins 28th for 23rd overall and 7th in the MV35-40 category in the 9.9k race. Angie Hughes, also making her debut for the North, having previously represented the South, finished in an outstanding 24mins 19secs for the 5.5k course, and was rewarded with a 25th position overall, 15th Veteran and a fantastic 4th in the FV40 Welsh Masters Category. Thanks also to Club Captain Geran Hughes, who was also selected to run, and although unable to run on the day, still came down to support the quartet of Harriers.
Stockport 10 mile, 2007 ~ 09/12/2007
Three Harriers completed the difficult Stockport 10 mile road race, all producing excellent performances. Dewi Roberts finished in 60mins 18secs, for 17th overall, and 3rd MV40, out of a field of over 850 runners. Gareth Roberts was close behind in 61mins 38secs, for 24th overall and 6th MV40, while Richie Lee proved he hasn’t lost any of his speed, running 65mins for 49th position, all tremendous times for such a difficult course in very poor conditions.
Lanzarote Half-Marathon ~ 28/11/2007
Darren completed the 4th race in the Lanzarote series of races in a tremendous 1hr 14mins 45secs, his best time ever for the race, finishing in 8th position. This secured an 8th position overall for him but victory in his age category by over 10 minutes.
Lanzarote Beech Run ~ 27/11/2007
Darren completed the very difficult 5.6k Beech run in a fantastic 19mins 52secs, finishing 9th overall.
Lanzarote Ridge Run ~ 26/11/2007
Darren Blazier completed his second race in Lanzarote, the Ridge Run, completing the 13k course in 45mins 30secs, a pb for the course, a time that has put him into first position overall in his age group for the weeks races, with two more races to go in the series.
Lanzarote 10K, International Running Challange ~ 24/11/2007
Darren Blazier ran the highly competitive International Running Challenge 10k in Lanzarote coming home in 34mins 40secs for 10th position overall in the highly competitive International field. The race was particularly difficult this year as it was run in very high winds.
Preston 10mile Road Race ~ 18/11/2007
Dewi and Gareth Roberts travelled to Preston for the Preston 10mile road race, each producing personal best times for the distance, over an undulating course in windy conditions. Dewi finished in 59mins 26secs, 22nd overall and 3rd MV40, beating his previous time by 20 seconds, while Gareth took 50seconds off his previous best with a superb 60mins 46secs for 32nd overall and 6th MV40, out of 400 starters
Home International X-C Race 2007 ~ 17/11/2007
Geran Hughes represented Wales in the Home International Cross Country meeting in Northern Ireland on Saturday. Geran ran an excellent 31mins 4secs over the very muddy 8k course, finishing 62nd overall in the International field. At the same meeting Angie Hughes ran in the ladies open 6k race and had one of her best races of the year, finishing in an extremely creditable 30mins 33secs for 10th place overall.
Penmaenmawr Fell race ~ 17/11/2007
Two Harriers took on the Penmaenmawr Fell race, a category B race, over 11 miles but with only 1500feet of climbing. Fell specialist Justin McIlveen continued his meteoric improvement this year with one of the outstanding runs of the weekend, by finishing in eight position overall in a tremendous time of 1hr 20mins 51secs, beating his previous best for the course by almost nine minutes. Richie Lee, running his first race this year, was also very pleased with his time of 1hr 29mins 40secs, almost identical to his time two years ago.
Rhobell Fawr Fell Race ~ 10/11/2007
Justin McIlveen continued his assault on the fells by tackling the Rhobell Fawr fell race on Saturday. The six mile fell race with 1900ft of climbing was won by Steven Guilliland of Bro Dysynni in 51mins 41secs. Justin came home in a magnificent 5th position overall in a time of 56mins 29secs.
Niagara Falls Marathon ~ 04/11/2007
Last weekend Robert Spotswood took part in the Niagara Falls Marathon in Canada, which was run in extremely cold conditions. Despite the conditions, Rob ran an excellent time of 4hrs 8mins to finish a very satisfactory 485th out of a field of over 1000 runners.
Rhinog Horseshoe fell race ~ 27/10/2007
Justin McIlveen completed the guiling 15 mile fell race, which had 5,200ft of climbing over four mountains. Low cloud made navigation extremely difficult and many runners, including Justin, went off course. One runner was in fact found by mountain rescue late in the evening, while the pre-race favourite also got lost and came home in a time of 3hrs 45mins. Justin, despite going off course, finished fifth overall, in a time of 3hrs 29mins, just 17mins behind the winner. This was the ninth and last race in the North Wales Fell Series, and thanks to a fantastic series of races, Justin, in his first full season on the fells, was 3rd Under 40 overall.
Abergele 5, 2007 ~ 04/11/2007
Abergele Harriers held their 21st, and most successful ever, five mile road race on Sunday, which once again contained the North Wales Championships for the distance. The race, which was over the usual very testing course, was run in perfect conditions, which also helped to boost the entries to a record 269. First home, in a fantastic time of 28mins 7secs, leading almost from gun to tape, was Clive West of Buckley Runners, who also went home with the North Wales overall, senior and V40 titles. Second, exactly 30 seconds behind was Stephen Guilliland of Bro Dysynni, who also won the MV45 title in the open race and the championships, while Brendan Rothery of Eryri Harriers was third in 27mins 46secs, but has the consolation of being first Senior Male in the open race, and third in the championships. First lady home, running outstandingly at present, was Emma Parry of Wrexham AC, in 29mins 56secs, closely followed by Tammy Lewis –Jones of the North Wales Road Runners in 30mins 23secs and Manlyn Kitching of Tattenhall Runners just a further fifteen seconds further back. The men’s team prize was retained by Eryri Harriers, while the ladies team prize was retained by Wrexham AC.
The Harriers themselves, despite having over 40 members helping on the day still managed to field 10 runners, and had a magnificent three home out of the first nine. Leading the club home, was club Captain Geran Hughes, in a fantastic time of 28mins 10secs, for 5th position overall, and 2nd MV40, just three seconds ahead of John Earlston, who was also second in his very competitive MV45 category both in the open and championship races. Third Harrier, but the club’s only North Wales Champion of the day, was John Ford, in an excellent 28mins 25secs, coming just eight days after he ran the Snowdonia Marathon. Haydn Jones was next home in a tremendous time of 33mins 28secs, bringing the team home in a very creditable third position overall. Peter Smith was next, making a welcome return to Abergele, finishing in 36mins 50secs, for 120th position overall, while Susan Calvert, first female Harrier home on the day, ran a superb 41mins 47secs, finishing 189th overall. Ever-improving Jonathan Perry was next in an excellent time of 42mins 28secs for 196th, with Stevie Ward running powerfully as always, finishing in 50mins 52secs. One of the highlights of the day for the Harriers came towards the back of the field, where father and daughter combination Robert Cotton and Sarah Williams finished together in 59mins 32secs.
The Harriers would like to thank all their sponsors, particularly Slaters of Abergele, GAP IT, the North Wales Police, Wales and West Utilities and the Abergele Town Council, and the many other local businesses who support the race, without whose help the race simply couldn’t continue. The club would also like to thank all its members and their friends who helped and the members of many other local clubs who also helped on the day, with special appreciation going to Club President Mike Nolan and Abergele Town Mayor Gwyneth Davies and Mayoress Sylvia Craycroft who helped with the presentations. Plays are already started for next years race which will once again contain the North Wales Championships.
Dublin City Marathon 2007 ~ 29/10/2007
Pete Smith travelled to Dublin to complete his second ever marathon, and on an almost perfect day for running, completer the so called "friendly marathon" in an excellent 4hrs 20mins 53secs.
Snowdon Marathon 2007 ~ 27/10/2007
Three Abergele Harriers took on the 25th Snowdon Marathon on Saturday, a marathon that is described by many as the hardest in Britain, with all three rising to the challenge admirably. John Ford, making his debut at the distance, had a fantastic run, and although a little disappointed himself with his time, still managed to finish in a highly respectable time of 3 hours 17 minutes. Ford, who was with the leading group over the first climb, found the second half more difficult, but still held on for an excellent finish. In contract to Ford, Club Chairman, Alan Lucas was completing his 16th Snowdon Marathon, and like Ford ran a tremendous race, finishing in a superb 4 hours 11mins 57secs, for 12th position overall in the highly competitive MV60 category. David Edwards, another debutante to Snowdon but completing his second Marathon of the year, also had a very impressive run, finishing in an extremely creditable 4hrs 46mins over this most difficult of courses.
Cardiff Half-Marathon ~ 14/10/2007
Alison Guillemin was among the 7,000 runners who took part in the Cardiff Half-Marathon, which was run over a very scenic, fast, flat course, finishing in the grounds of Cardiff Castle. Guillemin took full advantage of the conditions, and despite a very crowded course, managed a personal best time for the distance, of 1hr 54mins 34secs, smashing her previous best time by three minutes.
Liverpool 10k ~ 07/10/2007
Alison Guillemin took part in the Liverpool 10k, which starts and finishes in Sefton Park. In extremely hot conditions Guillemin ran superbly well to finish in an excellent 52mins 36secs, in this her tenth 10k race of the year.
Arenig Fawr fell race ~ 30/09/2007
Justin McIlveen ran the Arenig Fawr fell race, over 6.7 miles, with 1900 feet of climbing, finishing 10th overall in an excellent 63mins 45secs, making it a record 28 individual Harriers in competitive action over one weekend.Justin was just seven minutes behind winner Richard Roberts once again proving how well suited he is to this particular discipline.
Great North Run ~ 30/09/2007
Three Harriers completed the great North Run, two tackling the distance for the first time. Dave Edwards lead the trio home in 2hrs 2mins, while daughter Sarah made her competitive debut for the club with a tremendous 2hrs 15mins. Julie Jones, a seasoned campaigner, but never before at this distance, also ran fantastically well finishing in 2hrs 28mins.
Flintshire 10k ~ 30/09/2007
Five Harriers were among the 320 finishers in the Flintshire 10k, and produced three personal best times and two prize winners. John Earlston continued his magnificent season finishing third overall, and first MV45, in a phenomenal 33mins 54secs, probably his best performance in an already outstanding year. Darren Blazier finished 8th in 35mins 22secs, while Dewi Roberts took eleven seconds off his personal best time for the distance but still finished just outside the elusive 36 minute barrier, in 36.04, but with the consolation of the runners up position in the MV40 category. Gareth Roberts, also got a personal best time finally breaking the 37 minute barrier, in 36mins 57secs, for 19th overall, while Robert Spotswood returned from injury to finish in an excellent 46 minutes. The Harriers once again easily won the team prize.
Llanwrst Triathlon
Matthew Ashton finished a magnificent 15th in this his first Triathlon. The "sprint" distance triathlon was held in windy conditions on Sunday 2nd September but despite this Matthew's times were excellent. He completed the 400m pool swim in 6mins 58secs, following that up with a superb 47mins 39secs for the 25k cycle. He completed the race with an outstanding 20mins 19secs for the 5k run.
Anglesey Marathon, 2007 ~ 23/09/2007
Ed Rein took part in the Anglesey Marathon, and despite a very difficult course, produced one of his best Marathon times for many years. Ed finished in a tremendous 3 hours 17 minutes exactly, proving once again his quality over the distance.
Shell Sutton Six ~ 23/09/2007
Five Harriers took part in the Shell Sutton Six 10k road race, a difficult 10k in Chester. Darren Blazier continued his recent good form leading the quintet home in an excellent 35mins 25secs for 15th position overall, with Club Captain Geran Hughes hot on his heels the whole way, finishing just seven seconds and one position further back, for his best time for the distance this year. Haydn Jones, despite by his own admission going off a little too fast, still produced an excellent performance of 42mins 12secs, for 77th position overall. Grahame Shone, running his first 10k of the year, also ran tremendously well, finishing in a time of 42mins 53secs for 87th overall and 5th MV55. Angie Hughes, made a very welcome return to racing, posting a fantastic 47mins 50secs, for 141st overall and a very creditable 4th in the highly competitive FV40 category.
Bala Triathlon
This years Bala "Olympic distance" Triathlon was severely hampered by the weather on Sunday with the swim leg having to be reduced from 1.5k to 1k because of the height of the waves. Added to this the 40k cycle was almost entirely into the prevailing wind making a hard day all round. Richie Lee managed to calm the conditions, finishing in 2hrs 13mins 28sec, completing the 10k run in 40mins 29secs following excellent swim and bike legs. Gaerth Roberts on the other hand finished in 2hrs 16mins 8secs following superb swim , cycle and run legs, doing the 10k in 39min 23sec. Dewi Roberts struggled a little with the swim and cycle, but followed it up with an outstanding run of 38mins 10secs, to finish just 5 secs behind Gareth overall. All three did very well to even finish as several athletes pulled out because of the conditions, finishing in 208th, 257th and 258th positions respectfully.
Ras Fawr Llanddoged 12.5k ~ 16/09/2007
Darren Blazier achieved his greatest triumph ever on Sunday when he won the Ras Fawr Llanddoged in outstanding style winning out of an extremely high quality field. Blazier ran the race of his life to finish in a personal best time for the course of 46mins 40 seconds, seven seconds ahead of Abergele’s Simon Shiels who once again proved that he is right back on form with another fabulous performance. Local runner John Ford, another Abergele Harrier, narrowly missed out on third position overall, finishing in a very impressive 47mins 35secs for fourth, while Justin McIlveen, finishing in a tremendous eight overall in 50mins 47secs, insured that the Harriers won the team prize for the first time ever, just beating the highly fancied Eryri Harriers contingent. Haydn Jones, another Harrier in excellent form at present was next home in a superb 57 minutes, while Jonathan Perry also triumphed over the very difficult course, finishing in 68 minutes. Susan Calvert, the Harriers only female representative on the day, took almost a minute off the time she set twelve months ago, finishing in a tremendous time of 71mins 50secs.
Lake Vyrnwy Half-Marathon ~ 09/09/2007
It was another record Sunday for Abergele Harriers, with five Harriers among the 1,335 finishers in the Lake Vyrnwy Half-Marathon, and four managing to smash the 1hr 20min barrier, making it a club record six members to have achieved that fete this year so far, with at least four others well capable of it who simply haven’t raced the distance this year. First home was the on-form Darren Blazier, in a very impressive time of 1hr 16mins 25secs, for a fantastic 15th position overall, running his sixth half of the year, with his second fastest time. Next home, in a personal best time by almost a minute, and breaking the 1hr20 barrier for the third time this year, was Dewi Roberts in a tremendous 1hr 17mions 50secs for 20th position overall and second MV40. Tim Cahill, another runner in outstanding form at present, finished in 1hr 19mins 25secs for a superb 29th overall and again second in his age category, this time the MV45 category. Gareth Roberts was rewarded for his persistence, running his third Half-Marathon of the year and finally managed to beat the elusive 1hr20 barrier at his sixth attempt, with a phenomenal 1hr 19mins 30secs for 31st overall and 4th MV40. Rob Spotswood also ran well but unfortunately pulled a muscle at about the six mile mark, but still managed to get home in a very respectful 1hr 44mins 48secs, only just four minutes off his best of the season for the distance. Hillary Jacques, the only female Harrier in competitive action all weekend, did herself proud running a fine race and finishing in an excellent time of 1hr 50mins 20secs.
Dorset Demon ~ 09/09/2007
Pete Smith travelled to Dorset to be among the small, but brave, field of runners to take on the Dorset Demon 16 mile race in Swanage. The race is entirely off road over an extremely undulating course, and this year was run in very hot conditions. Pete’s time of 2hrs 53mins was a testament to the severity of the course and was rewarded with an excellent tenth position overall.
Caernarfon 10k 2007 ~ 02/09/2007
Abergele Harriers can boast three new North Wales Champions following the Caernarfon 10k road race on Sunday, which incorporated this years championships. In windy conditions the course was reversed, but this didn’t stop Harriers dominating the proceedings with three home in the first five overall. John Earlston produced his greatest 10k run for many years, finishing in an outstanding 34mins 20secs, to not only easily win the MV45 title, his fourth North Wales title of the year, but also finish third overall, and third “senior male” in the Championships. Hot on Earlston’s heels was Darren Blazier, who finished fourth overall, in a superb time of 34mins 33secs, his best time for the distance in almost two years, and good enough for to win Blazier his first ever North Wales Championship title, in the newly formed MV35 category. Only ten seconds and one position further back, just recovering from a knee injury, was Simon Shiels, whose time of 34mins 43secs won him his first MV40 North Wales title, to add to the very many senior men’s titles he has won in the past, and no doubt the first of many Veteran titles. Club Captain Geran Hughes also ran extremely well, improving on last years time by over two minutes, finishing in 36mins 8secs, coming home as second MV40 on the day. Justin McIlveen, who was running his third race in six days, showed no signs of tiredness, still managing a tremendous 38mins 22secs, while Haydn Jones ran outstandingly well to produce a personal best time for the distance of 41mins 33secs. Robert Spotswood completed the Harriers team, in a fine time of 46mins 42secs, coming just one week after the first race victory of his career.
Llyn Brenig 2007 ~ 01/09/2007
Justin McIlveen ran his second of three races in six days completing the Llyn Brenig trail race on Saturday. Justin's fantastic time of 58mins 24secs was rewarded with sixth position overall, less than four minutes behind the winner.
Moel Famau Fell race ~ 27/08/2007
Two Harriers took part in the Moel Fammau fell race on Monday 27th August over 4 miles and with 1,237 feet of climbing. Justin continued his excellent form over the fells finishing in 15th position in a time of 33mins 50secs, while Ed also ran superbly finishing in 36minsm 7secs for 30th overall.
Crewe 7.5k ~ 26/08/2007
Robert Spotswood, running his 17th race of the year, produced one of his best ever performances, to achieve his first ever race victory, by winning the Crewe 7.5 k race on Sunday 26th of August. Over a very undulating course and in very hot conditions, Rob beat all the opposition with a fantastic performance of controlled running.
Birchwood 10k, 2007 ~ 19/08/2007
Six Harriers took part in the very popular Birchwood 10k race, as part of a field of 980 runners, again running in poor conditions. First home, running splendidly at present, was Tim Cahill in a fantastic 36mins 34secs, finishing in 44th position overall. Dewi Roberts just came out second best in a fierce battle with Cahill, finishing just seven seconds further back, in 36mins 41secs for 47th position. Gareth Roberts, despite the conditions, was just over 30 seconds from a personal best time, finishing in 37mins 29secs for 60th position. Alison Guillemin, running her 9th 10k race of the year, also ran very well, finishing in 52mins 47secs, while Julie Jones, again running excellently at present, ran a highly satisfying 63mins 30secs. Annwen Begley, another runner who appears to have developed a liking for 10k races, finished this, her 6th 10k of the year, in a tremendous 72mins 37secs, to complete a very successful and enjoyable weekend for the Harriers.
Race the train, Rotary Challenge ~ 18/08/2007
Haydn Jones took on the Rotary Challenge 14.6 mile race against the Talyllyn Steam train , when the conditions had deteriorated further from earlier in the day, and although he didn’t manage to get the better of the train, he still had a magnificent run, this being his longest race to date. Haydn finished in a very respectful 2hrs 7mins 50secs finishing 226th male out of 545 male finishers, 288th overall of 687 finishers, with several runners pulling out as a result of the conditions.
Race the train, Quarry Challenge ~ 18/08/2007
Steven McCormack of Abergele Harriers proved that man power can get the better of steam power, when he was one of two Harriers who took on the Talyllyn Steam train in Tywyn on Saturday. Steven competed in the Quarry Challenge 10k race, and in atrocious conditions over the extremely difficult multi-terrain course, Steven came home 9th overall, 7th Senior Man, out of a field of 328 finishers. Steven’s time of 43mins 13secs, beat the train by almost twelve minutes, and also had the pleasure of beating his father’s time of two years ago by 62 seconds. Interestingly, Steven had also beaten the train six years earlier in the associated Junior race over a much shorter distance, but on that occasion, because of the “foot and mouth” scare at the time, the race was held on road rather than the traditional hilly off road course, making him one of a small number who have beaten the train both on and off road.
Leg End Fell race 2007 ~ 12/08/2007
Justin McIlveen of Abergele Harriers, became the latest club member to win a race, by winning the Leg End fell race in Dwygyfylchi, near Penmaenmawr, on Sunday. McIlveen, who has been fell racing for less than a year, triumphed in this most prestigious race, winning by just five seconds from seasoned campaigner James McQueen of Eryri Harriers. The race, which is over nine miles and with 2890 feet of climbing, was won by McIlveen in a time of 1hr 21mins, just 99 seconds off the course record, proving once again what a fantastic fell runner he is. Abergele’s Ed Reid, another member who regularly takes to the mountains, also had a fantastic run, finishing in 1hr 38mins 6secs. Hilary Jaques was the third Harrier to complete the course, also finishing among the prizes, with an excellent 2hrs 15mins, to finish third in her very competitive age category.
Ponderosa 4 mile fell race ~ 08/08/2007
Hilary Jacques completed the Ponderosa fell race, which takes place over the Horseshoe Pass, near Llangollen, where she completed the 4 mile, 951 feet of climbing, in just under 42 minutes.
Antwerp Half Ironman ~ 05/08/2007
Richie Lee completed his second Half-Ironman at the weekend in a fantastic 5 hours 22 minutes. The swim, which was 1900m took him 33 minutes, which was followed by a 90k cycle, which he completed in 2hrs 40mins. After this he had to complete a very tough Half-Marathon, in swelteringly hot conditions of over 30 degrees, which he completed in a very respectful 1hr 59mins.
Sale 10, 2007 ~ 05/08/2007
In the Sale 10 mile race, Simon Shiels proved that after only four races back, he is once again a force to be reckoned with, by finishing in a fantastic 55 minutes 59 seconds to finish 12th overall in this highly prestigious race, and second MV40 on the day, a time that also just gets him into the top twenty in his age group in Britain this year. John Earlston, another Harrier in outstanding form at present, finished in 57mins 9secs, his best time for the distance in very many years, 69 seconds faster than last year, and 12th fastest by a MV45 in Britain this year. The time was also good enough for 15th overall, but for the first time this year, he was narrowly beaten into second position in his age category. The third Harrier to complete the race was Dewi Roberts, who finished in 60mis 50secs, six seconds faster than last year, and 32nd overall. Unfortunately the day was extremely hot and humid, and as a result Gareth Roberts pulled out early, to save himself for upcoming races over the next few weeks.
Gabowen 4 ~ 03/08/2007
Tim Cahill ran the Gabowen 4, part on the Pentathlon series, and finished in 13th position in a very good time of 23mins 19secs. Cahill is rapidly getting used to once again finishing on the winners rostrum, and this was no exception, as the time was good enough to earn him the second MV45 prize on the night.
British Masters 3000m Steeplechase ~ 29/07/2007
Club Captain Geran Hughes took part in the British Masters Track and Field Championships in Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium. Ex-Welsh Steeplechase International, Hughes, ran in the 3000m steeplechase which took place in very blustery conditions. Hughes finished in a magnificent 4th place overall, in a time of 10mins 52secs, an outstanding performance in such a prestigious event, doing the club proud at this National level.
Snowdon International Race, 2007 ~ 28/07/2007
Hillary Jaques took part in the Snowdon International Fell race, and despite intense competition, finished 3rd position in her age category, in an outstanding time of 2 hours and 1 minute, almost identical to last years result.
Dolgellau 5, 2007 ~ 28/07/2007
Four Harriers travelled to the Dolgellau 5 mile race, considered one of the fastest five mile races in the Welsh Calendar, coming home with two individual prizes, as well as the overall team prize for the second year in succession. Ever improving Simon Shiels was first Harrier home in an excellent time of 26mins 20secs, finishing third overall, proving he is well back on target to start re-winning races in the very near future. Tim Cahill, again running extremely well at present, was eight overall, and in the process winning the MV45 category, finishing in 28 minutes exactly. Dewi Roberts was just seventeen seconds and two positions further back, beating his previous personal best time for the distance by 21 seconds, while Gareth Roberts was just three seconds outside his personal best, with a tremendous 29mins 1sec, helping to secure the fantastic team victory.
Green, green grass of Home Fell race ~ 25/07/2007
On Wednesday, Justin McIlveen completed the Green, Green, Grass of Home fell race in Llangynhafal, Denbigh, with a total climb of 1,300 feet of climbing. Justin finished a magnificent eight in a field of 66 runners, with a time of 48mins 23secs.
Nantwich 5k ~ 22/07/2007
Rob Spotswood was among a field of fifty runners to tackle the Nantwich 5k, having competed over the same distance in Caernarfon just four days earlier. Here, Rob finished in a magnificent 5th position overall, in a wonderful time of 20mins 57secs, just outside the personal best time he had set earlier in the week.
Caernarfon Race the Train 2007 ~ 18/07/2007
On Wednesday eleven Harriers took on the power of steam to run the Caernarfon Race the Train 5k race, which was made even faster this year by the course having been resurfaced. A record six Harriers actually beat it this year, lead home by the in-form Darren Blazier who ran a magnificent 15mins 40secs to finish in third position overall. Next home, also completing his second race in four days, was Simon Shiels who proved he is coming back strongly, with a time of 16mins 8secs to easily win the MV40 category. Third Harrier, again running fantastically well at present, was Tim Cahill, in 16mins 56secs, with Matthew Ashton not at all far behind in a personal best time of 17mins 18secs for 18th position overall. Justin McIlveen, taking time out from the fells, also ran very well, finishing in a personal best time of 17mins39secs.Rob Spotswood, who has run this race several times before, not only got a personal best time of 20mins 31secs, but was delighted to actually beat the train down for the first time ever, despite the very hot conditions on the day. Alison Guillemin also had an excellent run, equaling her previous personal best time for the distance, finishing in 23mins 5secs, while Julie Jones also ran fantastically well in 27mins 58secs. Annwen Begley, a prolific racer recently, was another Harrier to achieve a personal best time, with a superb 30mins 34secs for the course. Jamie Ashton, running along side one of her “beginners group” members Caroline Hockton, ran superbly also, finishing just outside her personal best in a time of 34mins 40secs.
Great Orme Challenge 5K, 2007 ~ 15/07/2007
Twelve Harriers took part in the Great Orme Challenge in Llandudno, where they made up over a quarter of the field and took home all three male under 40 trophies, all three male over 40 trophies as well as taking 3rd in the MV45 category with an MV55! In fact out of the first ten runners’ home, seven were Abergele Harriers, including a clean sweep at the front, with the Abergele Men’s team taking eight of the eleven male trophies available on the day. Winning the race by 23 seconds, and almost a minute ahead of last years winning time, making his debut for the Harriers, was Barry McGuire, in an outstanding 19mins 18secs. Second home, and 1st V40, running fantastically well at present, was Geran Hughes, in 19mins 41secs, with Darren Blazier just six seconds further back in 19mins 47secs for third overall and second under 40. John Ford, another runner making his debut for the club, ran an excellent time of 19mins 57secs, finishing forth overall and 3rd under 40. Simon Shiels made a very welcome return to racing, and considering his time out, returned in style, with a very good time of 20mins 9secs, for 6th overall and 2nd MV40, while father and son, Sean and Steven McCormack ran the race together finishing in 20mins 47secs, for joint 9th position, with Sean winning the 3rd MV40 trophy. Matthew Ashton and Justin McIlveen continued their personal duel, with Matthew coming out on top on this occasion by nine seconds, in a time of 21mins 44secs, to Justin’s 21:53. Grahame Shone also ran superbly, finishing in 24mins 23secs, for 3rd M45, despite actually being a MV55, with Haydn Jones also having a tremendous run, to finish in 25mins 25secs. Hilary Jaques, was the only female representative at the race, but managed a tremendous time of 29mins 20secs, this coming just 24 hours after running the Tal Y Fan fell race.
Winston Ladies 5 k ~ 15/07/2007
Three of the ladies team took on the Winston Ladies 5k in Wythenshawe Park, all running extremely well. Alison Guillemin lead the team home in 24mins 10secs for an amazing 14th position, in a field of over 100. Julie Jones, running her fastest time this year for the distance, finished in 30mins 41secs, while Annwen Begley, running her forth 5k race in eight weeks, also ran particularly well, finishing in 34mins 34secs.
Tal Y Fan Fell race ~ 14/07/2007
Hillary Jacques was one of two Harriers who took part in the Tal Y Fan fell race, over 8 miles and 2400 feet of climbing, finishing in 2 hours 5 minutes. Twenty-four hours later she ran the Great Orme Challenge! Ed Reid also ran the fell race, finishing in a very strong 15th position in 1hr 25mins.
Capenhurst 5k 2007 ~ 11/07/2007
On Wednesday Robert Spotswood ran in Capenhurst 5k, first in a series over the same distance, finishing in an excellent 21mins 35secs.
Penny Lane 10k ~ 08/07/2007
In Pennylane, the men missed out on the team prize by just one point, from Liverpool Running Club, but the quintet of Harriers present still managed three personal bests and one individual prize. In a field of 570 runners Darren Blazier finished in 8th position overall in an excellent time of 34mins 59secs just 11 seconds and one position ahead of Sean McCormack who had the consolation of winning the 1st MV40 prize and a personal best time for the distance of 35mins 10secs, in this most prestigious race. Third harrier on the day, again in a personal best time, was Dewi Roberts who finished 17th overall in an outstanding time of 36mins 15secs. Gareth Roberts also ran extremely well finishing in 37mins 10secs for 24th position. Alison Guillemin, the sole ladies representative at the race, ran fantastically well, again achieving a personal best time for the distance of 49mins 32secs.
Lytham St. Annes 5k ~ 08/07/2007
Grahame Shone was among the 149 runners in the Lytham St. Annes 5k finishing in a tremendous time of 19mins 51secs for 2nd position in the MV55 category and 31st overall doing the club proud and completing an extremely successful week for the Harriers.
Llyn Alwen Trail Race ~ 08/07/2007
In Denbigh, in the Llyn Alwen 11k Trail race Justin McIlveen continued his recent outstanding form finishing 10th overall in a field of 124 in a time of 44mins 24secs. Not far behind was arch-rival Matthew Ashton in a time of 44mins 51secs for 12th. Ed Reid continued his recent improvements with an excellent 45mins 45secs just three positions further back, coming second place in the MV40 category. Haydn Jones, one of a number of Harriers running their third race in a week, had a very pleasing 50mins 58secs to bring him home in 44th. Carol Willgoose easily won her age category in a fantastic 51mins 37secs, while John Hickman ran equally well, finishing just behind, in 51mins 59secs, for 2nd position in the MV65 category.
Moel Y Gymelin Fell Race ~ 01/07/2007
Justin McIlveen continued his assault on the fells in the Moel Y Gymelin Fell race, run over a very difficult 9.5mile course with 2,380 feet of climbing. Justin finished in a magnificent 1hr 22mins 22secs, for 11th position overall in a quality field of 783 runners, and less than 12 minutes behind the winner who won the race in a new course record time of 1hr 10mins 45secs.
Faenol Park 10k 2007 ~ 04/07/2007
Seven Harriers traveled to the Faenol Park 10k race with Darren Blazier leading the group home with an outstanding 35mins 36secs, for fourth position overall. Not far behind, and running amazingly well at present, was Justin McIlveen, in 39mins 4secs, finishing in 20th position overall. Just over a minute further back, was Matthew Ashton, in 40mins 19secs, for a well deserved 28th position, while fresh from his recent success in Buckley, Haydn Jones finished strongly in 43mins 37secs, for 56th overall. Robert Spotswood, another Harrier going very well at present, was next in 44mins 56secs, while Alison Guillemin also ran superbly, finishing in 51mins 22secs, 11th in her very competitive age category of F35-45. An excellent overall team performance was completed by Annwen Begley, who finished in a tremendous 69mins 42secs, a superb time given the very heavy conditions underfoot.
Ellesmere 10k, 2007 ~ 01/07/2007
On Sunday Alison Guillemin was the only club representative among the field of 179 runners that took part in the Ellesmere 10k, one of the toughest 10k races in the area. Alison had a fantastic race, finishing in 52mins 1sec, a tremendous time considering the difficulty of the course, ending in 96th position.
Buckley 5, 2007 ~ 29/06/2007
Sean McCormack and Haydn Jones were among the small field of runners who took part in Celyn 5 mile trail race in Northop, organized by Buckley Runners. Sean won the race comfortably by almost two minutes, in a time of 32mins 18secs, while Haydn Jones was rewarded with his first ever individual trophy, coming home in a magnificent 38mins 58secs, to win the V40-50 age category. The course was a tough 2 lap off road course, particularly wet in places but both runners handled the conditions expertly.
Riverbank Run 2007 ~ 24/06/2007
In the Riverbank 10k eighteen Harriers ran, taking home a magnificent 11 prizes, including several firsts. Winner of the race was Barry McGuire, who, although running for East Antrim Harriers, now trains with Abergele, and won the race comfortably in 34mins 57secs, also taking the 1st Senior Male title. Second on the day, and first MV45, still unbeaten in his age category this year, was John Earlston, in a fantastic 35mins 45secs, again a major highlight of the weekend. Third Harrier, sixth overall, and first U20, was Steven McCormack, in an excellent 37mins 44secs. Ed Reid, continued his excellent return to form, finishing in 39mins 17secs, to finish as 2nd V45, his first prize in a category he has just moved into. The overall winner of the ladies race was also an Abergele Harrier, Carol Willgoose, who ran a superb 44mins 1 sec, to win the race by over three minutes from her nearest challenger, and obviously easily won the FV45 category too. John Hickman, with a tremendous time of 44mins 46secs, again easily won the MV65 category, and in fact was well ahead of the MV60 winner, while Cheryl Richards, making her debut for the club, was also a category winner, winning the Senior Lady title in 63mins 31secs. Alison Guillemin, finishing in a fantastic 50mins 54secs, was just squeezed out into second place in the FV40 category by less than a minute. Matthew Ashton was also well back on form, finishing 13th overall, in 39mins 45secs, with Haydn Jones, another Harrier running very well at present, finishing in 43mins 11secs for 23rd, and Keith Elliott less than a minute further back, in 44mins 6secs, for 28th. Jonathan Perry ran an excellent 51mins 58secs, just ahead of Susan Calvert who finished in 52mins 2secs, her best 10k time in eighteen months, while Annette Jones and Lucy Jones, in their first ever 10k race, did tremendously well finishing in 63mins 41secs and 63mins 57secs respectfully. Rebecca Smith, another debutante at the distance, and the youngest person in the race, ran an excellent 65mins 51secs, accompanied by dad, Peter along the way, while Julie Jones completed an outstanding day for the Harriers, finishing in 68mins 25secs.
Carneddau 10 mile Fell Race ~ 24/06/2007
Justin McIlveen continued his assault on the fells, in the Carneddau 10 mile, 4,200ft race, finishing 63rd in 2hrs 7mins 47secs, despite getting lost along the way. According to Justin this was easily the toughest race he has ever done, but he's looking forward to the next challenge.
Chester Triathlon ~ 24/06/2007
Twins Dewi and Gareth Roberts tackled the Chester Olympic Distance Triathlon, both finishing almost together in just over 2hrs 22mins, completing the final 10k run section in 39mins, proving that they are both formidable talents at the discipline.
Horwich British Masters ~ 24/06/2007
In Horwich, in the British Masters 5k championships, Club Captain Geran Hughes ran an excellent 16mins 43secs for 32nd overall , while wife Angie ran a superb 23mins 4secs for 6th FV40 in the open race. The race was run over a very challenging three lap course, each lap containing two testing hills.
Humber Half Marathon ~ 24/06/2007
In the Humber Bridge Half Marathon, which incorporated the British Inter-Counties Championships, Sean McCormack, representing North Wales, did an outstanding 77mins 28secs for the extremely challenging course, finishing in 21st position overall, 2nd V40, and second North Wales home, only eleven seconds and one position behind their first counter. Team Captain Darren Blazier suffered early on from a knee injury but still managed to finish in a very respectful 83mins 11secs for 41st overall.
Freckleton Half Marathon ~ 17/06/2007
On Sunday Peter Smith travelled to Preston, Lancashire, for the 43rd Classic Freckleton Half-Marathon, only one week after completing a stage in the Welsh Castles Relay, and proved that he is still on top form at present, with a fantastic time of 1hr 46mins 32secs for the one lap rural course.
Park Hall 5k ~ 13/06/2007
On Wednesday evening three Harriers braved the extremely wet conditions to run the Park Hall 5k in Oswestry and all ran extremely well. Matthew Ashton was first home, only four days after running in the Castles relay, and finished in an extremely good time of 18mins 50secs. The other two Harriers were ladies and were running their fourth race in just over three weeks and their third 5k race, and despite the conditions were not far from their personal bests. Alison Guillemin finished in an excellent 24mins 26secs, while Annwen Begley ran an equally impressive 34mins 18secs.
Birkenhead 5 ~ 06/06/2007
Darren Blazier ran the Birkenhead 5 mile race on Wednesday night in preparation for the Castles Relay. Run over a new course, Darren ran a fantastic 27mins 37secs to finish 12th overall in a very high class field.
Welsh 1000m fell race ~ 03/06/2007
Justin McIlveen conquered the Snowdon race in the Welsh 1000M races on Saturday, finishing in an outstanding time of 1hr 49mins 27secs, finishing second in the race, which involved 4000ft of climbing over 8 miles.
Trafford AC Grand Prix ~ 29/05/2007
Club Captain Geran Hughes made a very successful return to track racing when he took part in the Trafford AC Grand Prix on Tuesday night. Geran took part in the 3000m race finishing in a tremendous 9:39.18, finishing as 3rd Vet overall in an extremely competitive meeting.
Tunnel 10k 2007 ~ 03/06/2007
Two Harriers took part in the Tunnel 10k which goes through the Kingsway Mersey Tunnel in Liverpool and was run in very warm conditions on Sunday. Alison Guillemin was first of the pair home in a time of 50mins 46secs, while Annwen Begley also ran fantastically well to finish in 73mins 19secs.
Stranraer Half Marathon ~ 02/06/2007
On Saturday, one of the Harriers most enthusiastic recent recruits, Haydn Jones, travelled to Scotland to be part of 195 participants in the Stranraer Half-Marathon. Over a hilly course in very breezy conditions Haydn had a fantastic race, finishing in 61st position in an outstanding time of 1hr 37mins.
Chorley 10m 2007 ~ 27/05/2007
Dewi and Gareth Roberts were among 280 runners who took part in the Chorley 10 mile road race on Sunday. In very wet conditions, both produced personal best times with Dewi finishing in a magnificent 59mins 46secs for 29th position, and Gareth not far behind in 61mins 36secs. Their times secured them the 6th and 7th MV40 positions respectfully.
Sun Centre 5k 2007 ~ 23/05/2007
Abergele Harriers made up over quarter of the field in the Sun Centre 5k on Wednesday, and took home an even higher proportion of the prizes,