22nd Blackmore Vale Lions Half Marathon
Press Release
What a difference a day makes
The 22nd Blackmore Vale Lions Half Marathon, organised by the Blackmore Vale Lions Club, was run on Sunday 2nd February 2014.
Having endured flood and tempest for the past few months those who braved the weather (not as many as recent years) woke up to find a balmy day with one runner suffering from heat exhaustion (too many clothes)
After doubts as to whether the race could take place the weather turned out to be ideal for running with just the odd pond on the course.
The good citizens of Bishops Caundle once more endured their village being turned into a parking lot but will be pleased that the Lions were able to donate£1500 to Julias House, the hospice for children with life limiting illnesses. Other good causes will also benefit from the £4000 proceeds from the event.
There were 500 entrants from all over the south of England and even Portugal and Ireland with 428 finishing the half marathon and a further 12 completing the Fun Run.
The famous finish (1.25 miles uphill) was much talked about by the athletes but they all seemed to enjoy the pain!!
Stephen Way of Bournemouth Athletic Club returned again to dominate the men’s race with a time of 1:11:17
Second was Jacek Ceiluszeki also of Bournemouth Athletic Club in a time of 1:15:03
To complete the clean sweep Jon Sharkey - Bournemouth Athletic Club was third in a time of 1:17:06
Helen Dyke of Poole Runners repeated last year effort as first lady in a time 1:26:43
Helen Joanne Carritt of Running Forever Club came second in a time of 1:28:05
Third was Hannah Bridger (unattached) in a time of 1:28:26
The Men’s Team Race was dominated by Bournemouth Athletics Club comprising Stephen Way,
Jacek Ceiluszeki and Jon Sharkey
The Ladies Team Race was won by Poole Runners - comprised of Helen Dyke, Janice Palmer and Kelly Frampton
The Fun Run was won by Ryan Walbridge with Hannah Cook being the first lady.
As usual the race was well supported by an army of marshals, drink providers, recorders, referees, and the Blackmore Vale Lions Ladies led by Sgt Liz Marks who made sure the army marched on a full stomach!!.
John Old - Race Secretary – 07753245271 ring1tree@yahoo.co.uk