Otley 10m Road Race 2008
Race report by Howard Cross
Wed, 11 June 2008
Marcus Bourne was solely responsible for suggesting such a thing as a 10 mile road race on a sacred club night, how dare he!
Alas it was a perfect evening for Pock runners as the lucky thirteen all made the journey over to Otley, and make a substantial dent in the finishing result.
The undulating course was a challenge in itself, with a near two mile downhill finish that made the race well worth the visit.
On the night the race was won by Darren Bilton of Leeds City Athletics Club in 52:01.
With a sub 39 minute and fourth place in the Dorney Dash 10k at the weekend, Helen Cross took Otley by storm winning the ladies race in an excellent time 66:42 for Pocklington Runners.
Dennis Speck must be commended with his effort of 60:36 in 14th position.
After an off road marathon at the weekend Iron man Richard Ginn was next to startle the Otley crowds coming home in 68:25, slightly ahead of Kev Norman in 68:37, a fantastic effort.
Pocklington runners Ed Rawlings was on hand to take 63rd place in 69:42 excellent running from Ed. Patrick Piggot crossing the line in 70:56, closely followed by Alan Kendra in 71:53 brilliant effort by both improving Pock Runners.
Steven Worth, seen to be struggling a little at seven miles, ground it out with a solid performance in 72.33.
Howard Cross (me me me ) enjoyed the club run night out in a time of 74.03, and the instigator of it all Marcus Bourne ran in a brilliant time of 79.42, well done Marcus.
Our ever smiling Jill Dowson ran a great race in 81.24 and Paul Sheridan who showed he can go the distance in 83.29. Brian Perkins ran a excellent time of 89.09 well done Brian.
On a very successful club excursion to the Otley 10 mile Road Race Pocklington Runners came away with an excellent performance on a night by all who supported a memorable fun evening, that saw Helen Cross taking the ladies crown and showing that Pocklington Runners can mix it with one of the top areas for runners in the north of England.