Shakespeare Raceway 10k and Half Marathon - 18 November
On Saturday 18th November, Jan Short and Andrew Evans headed off to Long Marston, near Stratford-upon-Avon for the Shakespeare Raceway 10k and Half Marathon. This is an event run in March and November each year, which comprises 3 race distances (5k, 10k and Half Marathon). Runners in all 3 races set off together and run either 1, 2 or 4 laps of a disused airfield, depending on their chosen distance.
The pancake-flat race track has potential for fast times, especially on days when the wind isn’t blowing a hooley. The scenery is not a distraction in this race (unless you have a personal passion for concrete and weeds). The finish is on super-smooth tarmac alongside a grandstand, usually sparsely dotted with supporters armed with flasks or bacon rolls and huddled under coats (it always seems to be cold there). Happily, conditions on the day were perfect for racing.
Jan was determined to record a sub-50 minute 10k, having been burdened with injuries over recent months, and zoomed around the course in 48:42 and 3rd FV45. Andrew chose the biggie, running the half marathon in an excellent 1:43:25. (Incidentally, the results page of this event contains extensive video footage of the race, proving that there is definitely nowhere to hide when you enter a race these days).
Runway 10k, Gloucestershire Airport - 29 November
This really was the weekend to run on an airfield, with the Runway 10k taking place at Gloucestershire Airport on Sunday, superbly organised by CLC Striders. Chris Dry was the sole Bourton representative (although he did claim to see Lynn Hudson running the other way).
Ever-determined Chris is a man on a mission to run a sub-45 10k. Chris flew around the airfield, landing himself a PB (by almost 2 minutes) in 46:26.
Luton Marathon - 18 November
Meanwhile one week on from achieving Godfather marathon running status with his 500th sub 3:30, Steve Edwards tackled the Luton Marathon. On a stunning autumn day, he finished his 33rd marathon of the year in 3:12:37 then went home for a whole week's rest.
Highlights
Jan Short and Andrew ran in the Shakespeare Raceway, Long Marston, near Stratford-upon-Avon.
Chris Dry almost knocked 2 minutes off his 10k p.b. at the Runway 10k, Gloucestershire Airport
Steve Edwards achieves another sub-3:15 marathon at Luton.
Other reports may be found on our recent race reports page.