In what was a sign of better times to come for running events, nearly 500 participants crossed the finish line at Chase the Sun Tatton 10K (Wednesday 26 August), organised by RunThrough. There were smiles all round at this new midweek event and in particular for Julia Matheson. 

Staffordshire-based Julia has an impressive running and triathlon pedigree and her talent and experience showed in this 10K. She has competed in the North Staffs Road Runners Association (NSRRA) programme of races over the years and is a highly regarded, well liked figure who continues to perform to a high standard.

She was amongst a keen field that made the most of this Covid-secure race with its start waves based upon estimated finish times that ensured everyone’s safety and avoided any bottlenecks at the start and finish. The faster runners were at the front and the slower nearer the back to avoid overtaking on the course. These and other measures proved effective in the Tatton 10K on 9 August and in Wednesday evening’s race, allaying any concerns people had about the return of events since lockdown.  

Callum Rowlinson won in 33:23 followed by Gavin Browne of East Cheshire Harriers in 33:55. Matthew Orford of Lichfield Running Club was third in 34:32.

Alison Lavender of Oswestry Olympians was the women’s winner in 35:31 with Carla Davies of Preston Harriers second in 37:15. Julia Matheson dashed across the line in third place in 38:31 and broke NSRRA Christine Kilkenny’s long standing F55 record.  

There were 487 finishers who were full of praise for the organisation, scenic location and atmosphere that together with the late summer sunshine made for a very enjoyable race. The most repeated comment was: “Great event, felt safe throughout and the social distancing at the start prevented any congestion.”

RunThrough are noe looking forward to next month’s Tatton 10K on 13 September.

Image courtesy: Tatton 10K