Conditions were ideal for this year's summer walk around the village of St.Johns, with sunny and warm weather conditions. The competition is a sealed handicap with the winnings being decided on how close walkers got to the times the handicapper had hidden away in advance of the race taking place. Victory on the night went to Dave Capelen who managed to finish the race within 19 seconds of his 71 minute handicap time. Joint second went to husband and wife combination of Garry and Janet Allen who walked the distance together and were within 38 seconds of their handicap and just missing out on a podium place was Ian Callister who got within 44 seconds of his time.

The Herbie Cannell trophy for the fastest walker of the night had not been presented since the race was moved away from its traditional start at the Hawthorn pub due to the increase in traffic on the roads in recent years. Herbie was of course the well known landlord of the Hawthorn and a keen race walker himself. The trophy was represented on Thursday evening by Herbie's daughter Roey Crellin, one of the fastest ever female walkers around the Parish Walk course and who also gained an international vest in 2006 when she represented G.B in the Bar le Duc 170km race.  

Peter Kaneen who was fastest on the night with 48.44 became the first new recipient of the trophy.Mark Hempsal and Alan Cowin were second and third fastest, but had a number of warnings regarding their technique, problems which can hopefully be ironed out with some coaching input. Fastest female 10k walker was Karen Renecle, who recorded a fine sub 64 minute time on a course which is notoriously tough with several testing climbs on each lap. Newcomer Janet Allen showed solid technique and was second fastest ahead of Kath Colquitt. The only other female finisher was newcomer Bernie Ball who walked well.

Supporting races at 5k and a junior mile also took place and some good performances were recorded. Lauren Whelan in particular recorded a new personal best at 5k with an excellent 28.19. This should give her confidence a real boost as she is due to race in the AAA track and field junior championships later this summer. Ciara Kaneen also made a welcome return to walking and recorded an encouraging 32 minute time. Brian Brough also opted for a bit of 5k speed work as did Pat Pollins.

Multi talented Alexandra Ross was the clear winner in the mile event, but there was an exellent race between James Green and Hannah Kelly for the lower podium positions, both walkers showed impeccable technique with James just managing to outpace Hannah in the closing metres. A very brave effort also from Jessica Isherwood who carried on to finish despite suffering with an asthma attack during the race.

Manx Harriers would like to thank all  the race officials and marshals who turned out to help. The next Manx Harriers walk is on 16th August and is a hilly 6 mile walk - signing on at Foxdale school at 6.30pm for a 7pm start.  See press for details in the coming weeks or www.manxharriers.com on the web.