The sun set on another successful season for NSRRA with outstanding running, podium finishes and new course records. All of which was against a backdrop of extreme weather and a cost of living crisis. Nil desperandum. 

North Staffs Road Runners Association (NSRRA) occupies a special place in many a runner’s heart with its first rate organisation, varied (and tough!) fixture list and the opportunity to compete against others in your group for points and standings. 

It’s well supported by local clubs whose members enjoy the cut and thrust of racing in a friendly, supportive environment. Everyone doing their best for personal and club glory throughout the year.

Covid tried to spoil the party but NSRRA adapted to the situation and events continued albeit in virtual formats. Then a welcome back to live races and onwards and upwards from now on...

2022 began with the super speedy Alsager 5 – a short and fast race on a flat course to determine if winter training had paid off. The lack of elevation was soon replaced by hills of all types of gradient as the season unfolded and bodies (and minds) were pushed to their limits.   

The British weather is always a factor and conditions ranged from heatwaves through to torrential rain and floods! But nothing stops an NSRRA race and its participants and whilst numbers may have been down on previous years, the desire to run was as strong as ever. 

(They needed some persuasion at Ipstones).      

Lee Gratton (Rugeley Runners) was a mountain bike champion before switching to running and is now coached by John Danahay. He led the way with wins at the Cheadle 4, Stone St Michael’s 10K, Rugeley 10, Dave Clarke 5K and the Staffs Knot 5 where he also posted a new course record. It will be interesting to see how the HPR runner performs next season. 

City of Stoke AC’s Kelly Butler bagged a trio of wins at the Dave Clarke 5K, Trentham 10K and Werrington 10K along with the tad moist Ipstones 5ish and Clayton 10K. A set of results for her and coach Kevin Hendricksen to be proud of.  

There were fine performances by Carl Moulton of Boalloy RC and Anna Hollingworth of Stone MM with both setting new 5K course records. Anna also posted a new 10K course record and Carl a new 15K course record. 

Age proved to be a number for Trentham RC’s Carol Higgs, Doug Alcock and Alan Lewis who also posted new course records. 

Helen Somers (Stone MM) and Lesley Hughes (Blythe Bridge RC) became ‘Compleat Runners’. Kudos to both of them as this is no mean feat.

Overseeing all of this was NSRRA Chairman Ken Rushton who together with wife Sue and his team delivered another superb season. Their hard work and commitment is appreciated by runners who enjoy the competition and camaraderie of this long-established association.      

NSRRA is a constant in an ever changing world and long may it continue.

Thanks Ken and team and here’s to 2023.

Image courtesy of Bryan Dale (Race Photos).