Summer Series Race 8 – Hollins Green 5k

Saturday June 2nd.

Race 8 in the Series. After the mass turn-out at Dunham, most people were hoping, with the long Jubilee weekend, for a few more points. It wasn't to be, 41 Wilmslow finishers. There could have been more if Huma had gone to Hollins Green instead of Lymm. Not bank holiday weather dull, drizzle, 16^o but pretty ideal for running. Most people ran faster than Dunham and there were a number of PBs, please use 'comments' below if I've missed yours.

Graham MacNeil was first Wilmslow runner for the second time this year, 14th. overall and 2nd. M45. Trevor was 18th and 2nd. M50, Andrew was 28th., two seconds ahead of Tom who was 1st.M55. He was just ahead of Mark and Robert made it four Wilmslow runners in 6 seconds. Mick was 1st.M60.

Louisa was 2nd.L35 and, for the second successive race, first Wilmslow lady. Janine was 1st.F40 and Nicky and Christine 1st. and 2nd. L50.

James won division 2, two races, two wins, denying Allan by only 5 seconds. Graham's knee may prevent him being able to do enough running to get back to where he was a few years ago but he's definitely improving. Ian Smallwood edged Richard out by 4 seconds with Paul Garnett only 2 seconds further back.

Louisa's the girl of the moment, is this a purple patch or a stepping-stone to greater things? Regular racing this year has taken Peter Bream to a new level. Janine and Alan needed PBs to hold-off Gareth. Matt's almost on terms with them. After a number of weeks in the doldrums, I suddenly felt confident enough to chase Chris and John. Didn't catch them, of course, nor James either. I did however manage, at 2k, to get in front of Amanda, who I'd been behind at Dunham, and then set-off in a long pursuit of Sharon , slowly clawing her in. At least I've been running, this was Roy's first of the Series. He had promised to nurse his achilles and not let his competitive instincts get the better of him. However, the sight of Rod tantalisingly just in front of him proved too much. No joy for Rod, his personal worse at Dunham was sunk.

Sharon's compensation was another division 4 60 points. Huma left the way clear for Simon to pick-up 59, but only after a long topsy-turvy battle with Julie. Strong run by Nina. Nick's calf survived 5k, but as with Roy we'll need to wait until Tuesday to see if both of them can now put their injuries behind them and concentrate on regaining fitness.

I'm missing most of the races over the next two months so can I encourage others to initiate post match reflections.

Ian