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Harriers build up road race speed

25/ 3/2008

WITH the cross country season over, Rochdale Harriers have turned their attention to a wide variety of races.

A group of Harriers have been working on the training track at Springhill, building up their speed for middle distance road racing.

The results are already beginning to show, with Andrew McDougal posting 37 mins 52 secs in the Trafford 10K and 62 mins 29 secs in the St Annes 10-mile race.

With the London Marathon rapidly approaching, Anna Blomfield chose the hilly Spen 20-mile race for her final long run. She clocked 2 hours 30 mins 4 secs and finished fifth lady overall. She won the FV45 category.

Four Harriers travelled up to the Lake District to compete in the Great Grizedale 10-mile trail race.

First home was Kris Robinson who completed the scenic course in 65 mins 19 secs to take 19th place overall.

Ian Stainthorpe posted 69 mins 32 secs, John Purdy clocked 76 mins 02 secs and Brenda Robinson posted 98 mins 58 secs.

The second race in the Area Fell Race Grand Prix was held in the Peak District.

The Lad’s Leap covered six difficult miles and had 1,700 ft of ascent. One competitor likened the course to a mini version of the Turnslack fell race.

Paul Leary was first for Rochdale again, in 62 mins 58 secs. Martin O’Reilly clocked 63 mins 29 secs, and Dennis Lucas timed 67 mins 02 secs.

Steve Leak maintained his lead in the male veteran 45 category by finishing in 67 mins 52 secs. Mark Widdup posted 75 mins 34 secs.