Cannock Chase served up an off-road treat at last Sunday’s (12 February) 10 and 5 mile from Nice Work. Trails, forest paths and a diverse landscape along with the odd ‘incline’ or two...

Billed as a classic trail race, this event lived up to its reputation with a choice of two laps (10 miles) or one lap (5 miles) on a strenuous yet scenic course designed for a challenge. There was no shortage of hills as it looped its way up and down this popular visitor attraction, making it hard going on the legs. However, the views of the surrounding area with its woodland, heathland and parkland took the mind (temporarily) off the pain.

Decent weather, friendly atmosphere and cheerful marshals all added to the experience for runners of all abilities, from dyed-in-the-wool off-roaders to newcomers to this type of terrain.

Strong running by Tom Chell of City of Stoke AC saw him win the 10 mile race in 1:03:42. There was a gap of more than 4 minutes between him and James Lebaigue who finished second in 1:07:48 with Adrian Marsh third in 1:09:39.

Emma Mills was the women’s winner in 1:15:46 followed by Emily Sanders in 1:16:32 and Alice Lebaigue taking third in 1:17:00.

In the 5 mile, Aston Rockley-Chapman was first home in 29:22. Robert Coleman came second in 33:13 and Simon Harris of Uttoxeter Road Runners third in 33:45.

Yvette Lycett was the first female in 34:18 and 4th overall. An emphatic win where she finished nearly 10 minutes in front of Uttoxeter Road Runners Gemma Harris who was second female in 44:39. Emily Pestridge was third female in 44:47.

All the results from the 10 mile and 5 mile can be viewed via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

A good run followed by a good coffee from the mobile van and a chance to catch the breath after the short sharp hills before thoughts turn to the next off-road race...

Image courtesy of Fran McCallum (Fran’s Marathon Journey to London).