Bosworth Half Charges Back
Big turnout for this anniversary race which returned after a three year absence.
The only battle was on the course at the Bosworth Half Marathon (Sunday 7 May) as runners, many from local clubs, fought hard for points at Race 3 in the LRRL 2023 League. They faced a scenic, undulating course in warm conditions, making it a challenge and a half on the Coronation weekend.
The Bosworth Half Marathon is one of 9 races in the Leicestershire Road Running League (LRRL) – a well established league with 26 member clubs making it a formidable contender. Points allocated at these races determine the final standings.
A well organised event from Desford Striders RC and Desford Flyers Junior AC, the Bosworth Half Marathon re-entered the field following a Covid enforced break for its 20th anniversary. KeepTheBeat was the official charity and sponsor and organised a virtual “Our KeepTheBeat Mile” for people to do at a time that suited them.
The Half Marathon started at 10am from Bosworth Lakeside Lodges. It continued along a rural route around the medieval town of Market Bosworth – close to the site of the final clash in the War of the Roses and passing various historical sites linked to that famous battle. Rising temperatures meant the water stations and sponge station was kept busy, helping runners to stay hydrated and cool on their way to the finish. Whilst the course was on roads, the finish was on the grass which was a mite squelchy after the rain!
Matt Scarsbrook of Badgers RC was the victor at the 2023 Bosworth Half Marathon in 1:10:16. A gap of over 5 minutes separated him from Alex Adie of Desford Striders RC who was second in 1:15:32. Scarsbrook’s teammate David Hill was third in 1:15:48.
Triumph for Rebecca Randell of Shepshed RC who became the women’s winner in 1:25:46. Catherine Hutton of Desford Striders RC was second lady in 1:27:47 and Poplar RC’s Kirsty Dale third in 1:28:07.
The last runner finished in 3:22:34. There were 705 finishers.
View all the results via the runABC Midlands Race Listing page.
There was a generous prize list that included team prizes sponsored by Derby Runner; a bespoke 20th anniversary medal for all finishers. All proceeds donated to KeepTheBeat charity.
The next race in the LRRL fixture list is the West End 8 on Sunday 21 May.
Image courtesy of The Dixie Grammar School.
