A few random tales from the finish line by PJ
Sean Hands over the trophy; Last years winner & course record holder Sean Hands retired on the Sloc due to injury. However, he was at the finish with Juan Clark from the sponsors Clerical Medical for the 'unofficial' presentation of the Parish Walk Winners trophy to Robbie Callister for the benefit of the Sky TV crew.
Victory Talk; Robbie made a big impression at this year's Parish Walk. Here is a particularly good one of Michael George. Seconds after Robbie crossed the finish line, celebrations were suspended whilst he summed up the trials of his 85 mile walk in a few sentences for training partner David Doyle
Pitts Stopped. Second placed Ray Pitts achieved his target of a sub 16 hour time holding off a late challenge from Michael George to finish in 15.51.42
Double Whammy. "Douglas Hotelier" Michael George finished a superb 3rd in 15.57.00. His support crew included a dentist and a therapist ensuring he finished with a healthy smile and in good spirits. Michael survived a serious dip during his time in the north of the island and relinquished second place to Ray Pitts. Fortunately, he was to make a good recovery on a diet of Complan. His wife Irene George (far left below) also took part and walked to Ballaugh in 10.40.33
George the Third
Eammons Home; 4th placed finisher No. 5 Eammon Harkin crossed the line in 16.40.24 and debriefs above with runner up Ray Pitts. Eammon took a good deal of time to recover from his brilliant walk only to then slip on the steps of Race HQ resulting in him being taken to hospital with rib injuries. Get well soon Eammon!
Better out than in! It was grim viewing watching Steve Partington recover from the immediate effects of finishing this gruelling event after his excellent 8th place finish in 17.13.50. In the end, hanging the handles of the Tesco's carrier bag on his ears helped save his blushes. Every little helps.
Here is the extraordinary story of 72 year old Michael Gray who walked with his daughter Stephanie Gray and finished the 85 miles in 21.52.27. The last time he completed the full Parish Walk was 46 years ago in 1961 when he finished 7 minute quicker in 21.47 walking for the Manx Gym Club Team.
Still upstanding after 85 miles John Watterson is home and dry in 22.02 thanks to his giant condom outfit. John is pictured bracing himself for a random drug search by race official Gordon Corran
All photos by PJ
