Ipswich's first half-marathon for more than 20 years was a resounding success
Nearly 1,000 runners completed the 13.1 mile course on Sunday 30th August, which took runners through outer Ipswich, the town centre and Christchurch Park.
A good crowd turned out to watch the runners arrive back at Northgate Sports Centre and cross the finish line. I attended on the day to lend my support to all the runners, I was amazed at some of the stunning achievements, with top quality athletes posting what I regard as very good times. The mens winner Adrian Mussett clocked a time of 1hr 10mins... which if my maths is correct that is running at an average speed of more than 11mph for 13 miles.....I can't even ride that fast on my bicycle. The womens winner was Sarah Stradling in a very good time of 1hr 19mins.....well done Sarah.
However the biggest cheers of the day went to two individuals; Eric Daykin 80 (eighty) years, living proof that you are never to old and Roger Girling (Larking Gowen ) who against all odds managed to complete the course and also manage a smile when crossing the finish line (see photo). Well done Roger a fantastic achievement.
Larking Gowen Ipswich Half Marathon RESULTS
To all who took part... well done for achieving your own personal victories, photos of the participants may be found at www.photo-fit.net
And a big thank you to Ipswich JAFFA Running Club all the volunteers and event sponsors including Heart, Evening Star, Willis, John Grose, Ipswich Building Society and all that contributed on the day.
And it is great news that the event is set to continue up to 2012 thanks to the sponsorship of local business advisors and accountants Larking Gowen and the 2010 Half marathon promises to be even bigger and better.
David King, partner at Larking Gowen, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be involved and in doing so have helped raise money for the two worthwhile local charities, Team Ipswich Sports Foundation and St Elizabeth Hospice.
Catherine Barnes, St Elizabeth Hospice, said: “This was a great event for the town and we are very grateful for all those who chose to run for St Elizabeth Hospice".
