Roddlesworth Roller Race Report

The second race of the series saw the first mixed terrain test for the runners, of which there were only four. That said the four runners were treated to the first proper race of the series, whilst Bramhall Park run was good fun, a race isn’t a race unless you have to pin a race number to your chest.

Abbey village was bathed in early spring sun shine and although some of us had hoped for rain to slow Steven Henderson down, we gathered at the start line in almost summer-like conditions. In stark contrast to Park Run, the other competitors in the race were mostly club runners and, as expected with trail races, the average age of the runners was significantly higher than Bramhall.

The race started and, although the first 800 metres was along a narrow path, the pack spread out quickly making for a very runnable race from the start. Steven took advantage of this and showed everyone a clean pair of heels, the next time we would see him would be at the finish line.

The race left the tarmac fairly quickly and we soon understood why it is named the roller! The woodland path undulated round the reservoir although on a constant upward trend. Just as we were starting to blow at the 3 mile mark the course delivered a particularly nasty climb which very much tested the fitness of all the runners. Luckily this climb was followed by a nice downhill road section and then a steep downhill trail section. Dave who was sporting some nice new shiny trail shoes was certainly grateful for his purchase.

The course linked back into the outward trail around the reservoir and back to the finish line for tea and cakes in the local school hall.

Steven finished in a very credible 8th position (considering this was mainly a club race), Wesley in 31st, David in 37th and Craig in 71st out of a field of 180 club runners. A great result by all concerned.

Times were as follows (course is a 9k mixed trail route with c. 600ft of climb):·

Steven Henderson – 35.32

Wesley Mort – 39.35

David Simmons – 40.45

Craig Cheetham – 46.43

Following this, the current leading positions in the Men’s Championship are as follows:

1. Steven Henderson – 40 points

2. Wesley Mort – 36 points

3. David Simmons – 28 points

4. Robert Holgate – 16 points

5. Richard Cole – 14 points

5. Craig Cheetham – 14 points

Look forward to seeing people (particularly/hopefully a first lady entrant) at the next one, which is the Ron Hill Accrington 10K Run!