Gemma Steel pushed the pace throughout her solo run at Barrow Runners Honesty 10K (20-21 June), an event raised a substantial amount for Rainbows Children’s Hospice. She completed multiple laps to become the female winner and gave this virtual event a ‘thumbs up’ for its winning efforts on behalf of the charity.       

The virtual 10K was organised by Barrow Runners as a replacement for the cancelled Prestwold 10K, part of the Leicestershire Road Running League (LRRL). Not to be beaten and wanting something to keep runners motivated during the crisis the ‘Lockdown League’ virtual race series was created. 

Barrow Runners Honesty 10K was the first in the virtual series with Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People in Loughborough the nominated club charity. Runners from across the county rushed to enter, completed their 10K over the weekend 20 to 21 June – whilst remembering to socially distance – then submitted their time to Barrow Runners.

GB International and Charnwood AC member Gemma Steel lent her support and encouraged others to do the same and help the hospice. She chose a route consisting mainly of loops and ran strongly and consistently to complete 10K in 34:38 and end up Senior Women’s and Overall Women’s winner. 

Simon Birch of Hinckley RC won the virtual race in 30:33.

Thanks to everyone’s hard work and support, Barrow Runners raised £5,624 for Rainbows Children’s Hospice. 

The second race in the series is the Lockdown League 5K this weekend (4-5 July) and is free to enter with the option of helping any of the charities shown on their LRRL Facebook page. 

For more information and to enter visit LRRL Lockdown Virtual League – Race 2 (OpenTrack).

Image courtesy: Gemma Steel