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Runners At The Alsager 5

Staffordshire race league is back on - virtually

North Staffs Road Runners Association (NSRRA) is re-starting its 2020 series of races as a way of supporting local clubs and keeping runners motivated during the current coronavirus crisis. The Association has converted their league into a virtual contest beginning with the St Thomas Virtual 10K on Sunday 14 June.

NSRRA's 37 running clubs are represented in the series of 20 races and members assigned to groups based upon their ability. Points are awarded in each race and the best 8 out of 12 count towards the league competition.

As a result of the crisis, Chairman Ken Rushton wanted to help those clubs who had incurred costs for upcoming races and generate some form of income for all clubs. After consultation with others he created the NSRRA Virtual Championships.

For the St Thomas Virtual 10K, runners choose their own 10K course, run this from home and submit evidence within 48 hours to Andrew Vickerman. A normal set of results will appear afterwards and medals posted out to finishers. Runners are asked to take a post-10K selfie and send this to Bryan Dale for his gallery.

Seven race organisers have already signed up and may be joined by others. One of these is Mick Hall with his Stone 5 on 19 August and Meerbrook 15K on 21 November. Leek Half Marathon and The Ipstones 5ish have also confirmed.

This Plan B as Ken reiterates is: “Not an ideal situation but hopefully this will help the local running clubs and give our runners something to focus on. You don't have to be a member of NSRRA to take part."

For more information, visit the NSRRA website. Register for the St Thomas Virtual 10K at Andrew Vickerman Event Timing.

Image courtesy of Mick Hall Photos

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