Groups of runners channelled their energies in the right direction at the Canal Canter Comeback on Saturday (22 August) and there was more than enough camaraderie to go around. The only thing missing was Cath’s cakes...

This was the first ‘live’ event for organisers It’s Grim Up North Running (IGUN) and included all the necessary precautions to ensure it was Covid-secure. Social distancing, staggered starts and sanitisers notwithstanding, everyone had an enjoyable day and were glad to be back racing, creating a sense of normality in these unsettled times.

There was a choice of three distances: Half Marathon, 20 Miles and Marathon that were held in changeable conditions along the Leeds-Liverpool canal. They started from Kirkstall in Leeds and continued along a flat route on good towpaths whilst staying two metres apart. Social distancing wasn’t a problem for charity fundraiser Chris Green or ‘Rhino Boy’ who has set himself the challenge of running 100 ultras, marathons and ‘rhinothons’ on behalf of Save the Rhino.

Stuart Scott of Sheffield Running Club won the Half Marathon in 1:17:54. Mollie Holehouse of Bridlington Road Runners was the winning lady in 1:37:14.

Tony Coyne of Belle Vue Racers took top honours in the 20 Miler, finishing in 1:43:06. Tara Spillings was the first lady in 2:46:53.

In the Marathon, Jonathan Walton was first across the line in 2:44:34. Kate Jayden of UKnetrunner won the women’s race in 3:53:03.

Cake was not allowed or hugs at the finish due to the restrictions but the medal and goody bag were vote winners.

The organisers’ efforts paid dividends and feedback was overwhelmingly positive for their first real race since lockdown began in March. Most importantly it: "Showed that we can still run safely and still have fun.”  

Their next live event is the Temple Newsam Dash on Saturday 29 August. Entries close midnight Monday (24 August).

Image courtesy: Andrew Swales Photography