More than 400 runners blew away the cobwebs as they completed 5 or 10 miles in freezing conditions at the Sneyd Striders Christmas Pudding Run (11 December). Some had to battle through snow before they arrived at the venue only to face it again during the race.

Organisers Sneyd Striders RC announced on social media that the event would be going ahead after a final course check and ‘weather eye’ on the forecast. It was so far so good until snow made an unexpected appearance, causing problems on the roads depending upon where people were travelling from. 

The organisers decided to continue, updated people about the conditions and recommended wearing running shoes suited to snow. 

The weather notwithstanding, everyone was in a festive mood with quite a few runners wearing Christmas fancy dress as they (carefully) made their way around Bloxwich. They ran one lap (5 Miles) or two laps (10 Miles) whilst being encouraged every bone-numbing step of the way by marshals and spectators who deserved a medal for their resilience. 

If there was grit on the roads it was equally matched by the gritty determination of everyone out to enjoy the experience.   

Gary Whitehouse of Tipton Harriers won the 10 Mile race in 56:24. Elizabeth Watters of Birchfield Harriers was the women’s winner in 1:07:00. 

In the 5 Mile race, Ryan Simms was the winner in 29:18. Victoria Bradbury of Birchfield Harriers the winning female in 32:47, making it a good day for the Birmingham based club. 

View all the results from the event via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.  

Finishers were rewarded with a medal, t-shirt, goody bag and Christmas pudding then (carefully) drove home.  

Sneyd Striders RC wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and see you in 2023. 

Image courtesy of Sneyd Striders RC.