Steve showed that he has recovered well from his
50km personal best a week ago in the E.A.A. Grand Prix in Slovakia to lead from gun to tape in a very
respectable sub 45 minute time. Steve's team mate from last weekend, Peter Kaneen,
also in recovery from his effort in Dudince came home in second position, just under
three minutes behind. David Griffiths was third and should be
pleased with his consistently good racing performances of
late.
In the ladies event, it was Marie Latham
who dominated the race after an early challenge from Bridget Kaneen fizzled out. Marie recorded another sub 54
time which should give her confidence a boost, perhaps a personal best at 20k could be on the cards in
Leamington at the UKA champs in two weeks if the race conditions
allow. Bridget recovered from her over zealous start and
finished second lady after a mid race tussle with junior Robert Moore, only
pulling clear in the final 3k of the race. Third
lady was Liz Corran, back in training this week after a five week
break due to a back injury. Michael George will be pleased with his sub hour
effort, just managing to hold off a late surging Ian Callister on the finish line. Lisa Motley also consolidated her
improvement with another 64 minute effort. It was also really nice to see Brian Brough back in
his racing shorts and chatting all the way with Sarah and Brenda.
Enid Watson was the solo competitor in the 5km
event with Emma Latham choosing to do some speedwork at 3km instead. Enid
recorded a respectable effort just over 33 minutes.At 3km, Emma Latham was very close to her p.b and
looked comfortable. In the under 15 event, Bronwen Kaneen, had a practice at
what will be her racing distance in the National
championships in two weeks time and was pleased to improve on her time set last
month at Ronaldsway.
The 2km race saw a head to head with Lauren Whelan
and the improving Fay Latham. Lauren was not quite on top form but still
finished a comfortable winner though outside her best. Fay looked foot perfect
as ever. Along with Kirsty Taylor, Manx Harriers will be hoping for a good team
result in this age group at the National championships and both Lauren and Fay
havebeen selected to represent England in the Nihill
match against Ireland at this meeting.
At 1km, Sinead Kaneen, virtually a veteran at this
distance came home with just under a minute to spare from newcomer Jessica
Isherwood, who is improving by the week. In the boys event Terence George
finished clear of Tom Partington in his first ever competition, sporting a technique that was strangely reminiscent of
another local walker.
Many thanks to all who came along to offer support
on the day. Particularly judges Maureen Cox and Dougie (globetrotter) Corkill
and to timekeepers Peter Clague and Judy Morrey. Thanks also to Gail Musson for
doing a great job on refreshments.
