Storm Eunice was followed by the whirlwind that was Matthew Rees who had a blast at Sunday’s (20 February) Hereford 10 Mile Race. The Welsh Runner took first place, posted a PB and set a new course record on a tough route in difficult conditions. 

The storms made everyone’s task that bit more difficult at the 2022 Hereford 10 Mile but they were ready, whatever the weather, to achieve a PB. Ready Set Go Timing had flood contingencies in place and confirmed that the race was (excuse the pun!) ‘Good to go’ and their efforts to ensure this were appreciated by all concerned. 

Runners lined up outside Hereford Rugby Club waiting for the 9am start. As soon as he heard the word ‘go’, Matthew Rees shot away in front and pushed the pace all the way round on the figure of eight course that included 580ft of climbing. There was no let up from Rees of Swansea Harriers AC who: “Wanted to really graft the whole way” and continued to do so right to the end, winning the race in 53:42 - a PB and a new course record. 

Owen Graham of Hereford Couriers RC took second place in 57:22 and Chris Grubb of Ledbury & District Harriers was third in 58:04. 

Donna Morris of Builth & District RC dominated the women’s race to win in 1:02:10 – finishing more than seven minutes ahead of Croft Ambrey RC’s Kelly Bowen who was second in 1:09:49. Joanna Eddy of Hereford Couriers RC was third in 1:11:43.     

The complete set of results can be viewed via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.   

This was a well organised race sponsored by Gymrushuk with an eye catching medal for all finishers. All credit to the organisers for delivering an event that saw impressive displays of running; not least from Rees who added his voice to others in praise of the Hereford 10 Mile saying: “Thanks for everyone who was involved in making today’s race a success.”
       

Image courtesy of Hereford Couriers RC.