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Salts of the earth in dash round water

5/ 1/2008

THE JOE SALT annual multi-terrain race was held in Whitworth on New Year’s Day.

Nearly 100 bleary-eyed runners dragged themselves out of bed for the morning, off-road event based round Cowm Reservoir. 

Nick Leigh, of Altrincham and District AC, added to his list of recent victories by completing the slippery, undulating course in 23 mins 06 secs.

In second place was Rossendale’s Jonathon Ferguson, followed by Danny Brocklehurst from Trafford (23.39)

The ladies’ winner was Sarah Cumber of Halifax (28.54). She pushed Rossendale’s Emma Flannagan into second place by eight seconds. 

Josefa Terim, of Rochdale, was third (29.18).

Following his top form in cross country events, Rochdale’s John Cook was Harriers’ first finisher.

He completed the 4.2 miler in an excellent 26 mins 59 secs and was 13th overall.

It was pleasing to see Ian Stainthorpe’s return from injury.  He clocked 27 mins 54 secs to finish as second Harrier.

Before the race Rochdale’s star under 13 cross country runner Jack Walsh was jokingly asked to show his elders a little respect by finishing behind them.

He did no such thing, instead seeing it as a challenge and beating nine of the club’s seniors including his father Nick.

Rochdale juniors’ coach Janet Proctor won the female 55 category in 44 mins 55 secs.

Rochdale Harrier results were: 13 John Cook (first M50 in 26.59), 18 Ian Stainthorpe (second M45 in 27.54), 27 Josefa Terim (second F35 in 29.18), 34 Jack Walsh (under 13 - 30.51),  Nicholas Walsh 31.03, 42 John Mayall 31.23, 43 Ian Holloway (first M55 in 31.25), 44 John Armstrong (second M55 in 31.27), 47 Andy O'Sullivan 31.43, 49 Matthew Cox 31.55, 50 Anna Blomfield (first  F45 in 31.57, 75 Stephen Wild 37.16; 89 Janet Proctor (first F55 in  44.55).