The organisers of the Friends Provident
International walks league were overwhelmed to see a record entry in the first event in the series. A combined
total of 91 walkers packed the perimeter roadway in the scratch event which will determine the
handicaps for the following rounds in ideal mild conditions for the time of year. In the 10 kilometre event Neil Bates scored maximum
points to finish in pole position though he had the first woman home, Carolyn Brown breathing down his
neck in the latter stages. Carolyn matched her best time of the season to the second and this will be sure
to rank her inside the top 5 in the UK for the distance. UK top ranked 100 mile champion Sean Hands was
walking for the first time since picking up a foot injury in his epic title winning race and his time
suggested he has lost none of his sharpness and fully recovered
from his endeavours. Junior Robert Moore looked comfortable walking a
sub 55 minute time, suggesting there is more to come over the next few months. Marie Latham also looked very relaxed throughout,
recorded a sub 56 minute time despite a steady start. Last weeks 1 hour challenge winner Michael George
set a big p.b. well inside the hour time forecasted after his win. Mark Harvey another well known surname in Manx
walking circles also looked pretty sharp and will be looking to target a sub hour time in the near future. Third female finisher was Jane Leece who seemed to
have lost very little fitness despite a lack of recent competition. Terri Salmon, first lady novice home in last weeks
one hour challenge was just outside the top three, scoring good points and looks sure to improve over the coming
months.
In the 5km Peter Kaneen went well below normal
distance to try and blow away the cobwebs and get over his recent
50k efforts and despite a rather enthusiastic start,
held on well to dip under 23 minutes. Liz Corran was next and first lady finisher,
walking with good form throughout. The times are sure to come if Liz can
remain injury free throughout the coming
winter. Junior Ciara Kaneen was walking her first 5k for a
couple of years and recorded a big personal best, going under 30
minutes for first time ever. The only other junior to walker was Kelly Worthington
in her first ever competitive walk. She worked really hard and is
sure to improve over the next few months. The rest of the field was a mixture of regulars and
new faces, all walking well and sure to post quicker marks as the
season progresses.
Just 3 juniors towed the line for the 3k walk. Lauren Whelan moves up to under 15 this year and proved that the 3k
distance holds no fear for her, scoring an easy victory.
Bronwen Kaneen was second finisher, recording a personal best, despite an errant
shoelace causing her a bit of a distraction. Kirsty Taylor also walked a strong
race, finishing well inside 20 minutes.
Sinead Kaneen just sneaked under 6 minutes to take
the win in the 1k event. Terence George was the first boy home, just over
half a minute in arrears. Third overall was Katie Norris who has shown a real
talent for this event, gaining great approval from all the judges on her natural flair
and technical ability. Katie set a superb time of 6.39 in her first attempt at the
distance. Jessica Isherwood continues to improve and recorded
a fine sub 7 minute time as did Craig Fletcher. There was tight competition throughout the rest of
the field with all the younger walkers showing good technique and enjoying their racing.
Most pleasing to see was so many newcomers taking
part in all the events, setting the scene for a great winter of racing. A huge thank to all the very hardworking officials
who managed to survive a very busy 90 minutes of frantic activity.
The next round of the league takes place in Andreas
on the 20th November - sign on at Andreas Village hall from 9.30am. Please remember to wear bright or reflective
clothing as the darker winter days draw in.
Junior walking training takes place every Monday
evening from 5.15 pm at the N.S.C. track (track rates apply). Senior training on Thursday evenings from 5.30pm
meet at Manx Harriers clubhouse, N.S.C roadway. (free . All walkers wishing to improve their technique will
be made welcome.
