Windy conditions and three hilly laps didn’t deter Nigel Martin as he sped to first place at the Knighton 20 (Sunday 13 March). He led the way at this popular race, used as a build up to a spring marathon, and known as a scenic yet challenging affair.

Race 3 in the NSRRA Programme of League Races for 2022, the VeloRunner Knighton 20 was a well organised event, held in the countryside and close to the Staffordshire-Shropshire border. Anyone who entered knew there was nothing flat and had mentally prepared for the ups and downs over 20 miles of attractive country lanes around Knighton. 

For those not ready or keen to run 20 miles there was a three-stage relay option for teams of three men/women/mixed. Leg 1 runners started with the main field before handing over to leg 2 runners at the end of the first lap who handed over to leg 3 runners.   

“Three...two...one” and off they went from Knighton Sports and Social Club with Nigel Martin at the front of the pack, to complete the three lap course in fine, dry weather. As the race was held in a remote location, spectators were thin on the ground but the marshals provided support and encouragement especially during the final lap when sore legs and tiredness had set in.

Nigel Martin of Sale Harriers looked strong throughout as he dominated the course and race to win the 2022 Knighton 20 in 1:47:40 – a gap of nearly 8 minutes between him and Carl Moulton of Boalloy RC who was second in 1:55:22. Karl Darcy of Salford Harriers finished third in 1:57:24. 

Victoria Walls was also in impressive form, becoming the winning female in 2:11:55 nearly 5 minutes in front of Diane McVey of Wilmslow RC who finished second in 2:16:38. Another good run from Joanne Stanfield of Trentham RC saw her finish third in 2:26:17 and 1st F50-54. 

View all the results including the relay via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

Prize giving took place at Knighton Sports and Social Club: tech t-shirt and bespoke medal to all finishers then home to recover after a tough but a rewarding day of racing.     

Image courtesy of Bryan Dale.