Brown And Eaton Lead The Way In Blyth
Fast racing and strong fields highlight Blyth 10K championships day...
A bright and breezy morning set the scene for fast racing at the Port of Blyth 10K and NECAA Championships on Sunday 12 April, where a strong field of 450 runners took to the fast, flat seafront course.
Run over two laps, the race quickly developed at the front as Houghton’s Alex Brown set the early pace, closely tracked by Gateshead’s Lewis Liddle. A short distance behind, Alnwick’s Liam McDonogh led the chasing group as the leading trio established their positions early on.
The order remained largely unchanged throughout, with Brown gradually extending his advantage. By the second lap he had opened up a decisive lead, going on to secure a comfortable victory in 31:37. Liddle ran strongly to hold second place in 32:07, while McDonogh maintained his composure to pull clear of the chasers and take third in 32:38.
In the women’s race, Tyne Bridge Harriers athletes Jess Eaton and Hannah Stewart controlled proceedings from the outset. The pair ran together through the early stages before Eaton edged clear on the second lap to claim victory in 37:27. Stewart followed home in second place in 37:45 to complete a strong showing for the club.
The battle for third provided a close contest, with Morpeth’s Holly Lawrence finishing strongly to secure the podium position in 38:41. She held off a determined challenge from Houghton’s Anna Pigford, who crossed the line just nine seconds later.
The event once again demonstrated its appeal across the region, attracting both leading club athletes and a wide range of recreational runners. Credit goes to Race Director Claire Mason and her team of volunteers for delivering a well organised and inclusive race on the North East calendar.
