Beverley 10k 2008
Race report by Howard Cross

11 May 2008

It has been a pretty busy week for the hardened racers of our Pocklington Runners. After Tuesday’s success at the opening race in the 2008 10k summer league, our Pock Runners racers choose to stretch their legs a little further and do battle at this years Beverly 10k.

The race starts off outside the cathedral where over 1000 runners set off through the town centre and out through Westwood Pasture. The race has a kind of three miles uphill and three miles downhill feel to it.

The warm weather on the day made it a little on the hot side for running, but the awe inspiring crowds on the home straight and through the town centre to the finish did make it feel like you had earned a welcome cheer to the finish line.

Darren Bilton the winner, in 30.55 set the pace with his fourth win in five Beverley 10k races. Melanie Hayward came home to win the ladies race in a little over 36 minutes both worthy winners.

First home for Pock was Simon Richardson who, after a fantastic London Marathon, claims to have only has one speed in his legs at the moment….and came in a very good time of 37:53. Warwick Anderson was next to zoom his way down the high street, being pushed all the way by Helen Cross - they raced each other to the end at 40:21 and 40:23 minutes. Howard Cross (Me Me Me), found it in the legs to run a minute faster than Pock 10k so was very happy with 43.10 – although I wish I could have Simon’s one speed legs for the day!! Next to cross the line was our very own captain of the ship Alan Kendra who, with family support, came in at 44 minutes - well done Alan. Next to grace the Beverley crowds was Marcus Bourne who is racing well at the moment in a time of 47:12. Brand new Pocklington Runner Alison Thornton made a fantastic debut by crossing the finishing line in 49:00. Jill Dowson was next, as usual looking very happy and smiling all the way over the finish line in 50:46 well done Jill. Sue Vicary made it look easy, coming home in 52:43. Our lovely shining star of Pock Runners, Sarah Hargreaves ran in a special secret number and whooshed over the line without anyone looking in a time of 55:59. Simon Weedy went over the line in 57:09 - well done Simon. Maralyn Mannifield rushed home in a very good time of 68:05 and last but not least was Victoria Foxton in 71:23.

A very good turn out for us Pock Runners - Simon Richardson was first in the over 55 category and Helen Cross was 4th lady overall. Well done to all and keep up the good running.