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Streaming away from the start of the Rutland Spring Half Marathon

Chill before the thrills at Rutland Spring Half

A taste of winter first thing but temperatures picked up at this popular, scenic race.

There was cool running – literally – at the Rutland Spring Marathon (Sunday 3 April) but whilst the weather began on a frosty note, things soon warmed up as everyone got into their stride around the beautiful reservoir. 

It was a successful weekend in Rutland for Pacesetter events that catered to the needs of walkers as well as runners. The Spring Half Marathon (Walk) on Saturday was followed by the Spring Half Marathon (Run) on Sunday and participants in both experienced a varied and at times, testing course that included steep hills and superb views of this smallest county. 

The day started with an attractive walk to the start line at Barnsdale via the Bluebell Wood. Then a race briefing at 8.50am before everyone set off at 9am along the North shore, towards Oakham and around the Hambleton Peninsula. An out and back course consisting of woodlands, open countryside, farm tracks and footpaths, some of which was technical underfoot and one road crossing that was marshalled. 

If anyone thought a reservoir route would be flat they were sorely mistaken! There were a couple of climbs early on, more at Hambleton and another as a ‘sting in the tail’ near Barnsdale and the finish.    

Dan Hardy of Mansfield Harriers & AC raced around the reservoir to cross the finish line as the winner in 1:19:20. John Pike of Peterborough & Nene Valley AC followed in 1:21:37 with Sam Barrett of Stamford Striders RC third in 1:24:02. 

Caroline Woods was also in race winning form as she crossed the line as first female in 1:35:24. Claire Isaacs was second in 1:38:45 and Chantal Lipscombe of Royston Runners third in 1:46:01.

View the complete set of results via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.   

For anyone interested in running here but doesn’t feel ready for a half marathon there is a shorter distance in the form of the Rutland 10K on 25 June. 

Visit the Rutland Marathon website for more details and to enter.  

Image courtesy of Cristi Corlaci.

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