Reading Half Marathon - 14th April 2024
Despite the early departure from Bourton on the Water, Sunday morning witnessed another weekend where a large group of runners from Bourton Roadrunners were setting off together, this time it was to Berkshire for the Reading Half Marathon. One of the oldest events in the country, this traffic-free event benefits from massive local support around the course, providing much needed encouragement.
In-form Eva Shoemark led the Bourton team home in a time one hour, 30 minutes and 49 seconds, earning her a new personal best (PB) time. Chasing all the way was Eva’s mum, Niamh Shoemark, looking relaxed on her way to 1:34:44. Lisa Braid and Jaq Underwood worked together around the 13.1 mile course, both achieving a very respectable 1:48:06.
Arianna Downs, running in her first half marathon, ran much of the distance with Louise Hamilton-Smith and Noelle Morgan, all finishing within seconds of each other and all looking comfortable, with Arianna achieving 2:13:31, while Louise and Noelle both achieved 2:13:37. Other Bourton runners, several running in pairs, included Michela Sartori (2:14:27), Claire Carroll (2:14:27), Allie Quinn (2:17:16), Liz Hulcup (2:17:16), Val McKay (2:23:37), Tom Knight (2:24:10), Imogen Cox (2:33:21 in her first half marathon) and Jenny Evanson (2:52:48).
Manchester Marathon - 14th April 2024
Meanwhile, Claire Cox travelled north for the Manchester Marathon, which delivers a big city marathon experience with over 21000 runners. Claire is no novice to marathon running, have twice run the Brathay Trust “10 marathons in ten days” challenge.
Claire battled her way through the crowded field to achieve a very respectable three hours, 45 minutes and 38 seconds.
Parkrun events - 13th April 2024
Bourton Roadrunners were out in support of parkrun as usual on Saturday, including at the following locations:
Cheltenham Pittville Park: John Harding – 25:37 (VM65/3), Chris Dry – 26:13.
Cirencester: Claire Carroll – 30:15 (VW60/3), Liz Hulcup – 31:02 (VW70/1), Louise Hamilton-Smith – 31:06 (VW40/2).
Evesham: Megan Ratcliffe – 25:15 (VW55/1).
St Albans: Kate Price – 31:38.
Stratford-upon-Avon: George Swayne – 18:20 (JM15/1 and course PB), Susan Hunt – 25:43 (VW55/3).
The Wammy, Newcastle-under-Lyme: Iain Cox – 24:51, Claire Cox – 24:52 (VW45/2).
Waterakkers, Netherlands: Lee Smith – 28:35 (VW50/1).
Highlights
A large team from Bourton Roadrunners took on Reading Half Marathon, with several first-timers, PBs, and even some seasoned runners, well supported by team mates. Catch the slide show below.
Photo Gallery of Bourton Roadrunners and supporters at Reading Half Marathon
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Claire just before the start of the Manchester Marathon - 14th April 2024. Click on image for a larger version.
Other reports may be found on our recent race reports page.