From Peter Shelley…
The Cookridge Community Run enjoyed a good turnout of 363 runners on its third iteration including a numbers of Harriers motivated by its inclusion in this year’s race league. It’s a multi terrain 10k run on the outksirts of Cookridge in northern Leeds, using bridleways and tracks in and around Golden Acre Park. Loads of volunteers including the local scouts helped the race run smoothly and raise funds for charitable causes.
The twists and turns together with different running surfaces combine with modest inclines (163m total) to limit the course’s PB potential. That said, conditions were good, and some strong performances ensued. Mike AC stormed to sixth place in 39:11, while Brit Tate won a podium place and prizes as 2nd lady in 42:46, 20th overall. Iain Young and Adam Gerrish finished within 44 minutes in 25th and 27th places. I surprised myself by picking up first MV50 in 28th place. Jim Ryder may be equally surprised to learn he was first MV55 finisher in 32nd place and 44:38 as he headed off before Leeds’ Lord Mayor could give him his medal.
Michael Ho was 66th in 47:37, Tracey Watson 95th in 51:01 and Rachel Barnicoat 271st in 1:05:52. Well done Ilkley Harriers!
Winner was Freddie Roden of Abbey Runners in 35:07. Not bad.
What was it like? Well, if you fancy a relaxed friendly 10k in rural surroundings away from traffic it’s great. There is a one-mile fun run too which could help keep children occupied or equally could be used as a warm-up for anyone over four. Apart from a bridge, tunnel and some tree roots, there is very little to interrupt your progress in the 10k. This means you are effectively obliged to run as fast you can over the distance. This can come as a bit of shock to fell runners, myself included, deprived of the normal excuses to slow down or stop, such as getting lost, falling over, steep slopes, angry livestock etc.
Dave and Eileen Woodhead were lurking with their cameras so there should be some great photos to look forward to.
Recommended.