Runners spring into action at Daffodil Dash
There were blooming good performances at Saturday’s (30 March) Daffodil Dash Temple Newsam. as sunshine, trails and cake were cause for a spring celebration.
The weather was a pleasant contrast to last year’s cold, wet conditions as runners converged on Temple Newsam, a Tudor-Jacobean house set in grounds landscaped by Capability Brown. Rows of daffodils made for an eye-catching display that the participants couldn’t fail to notice as they passed.
Smoothly organised by It’s Grim Up North Running and with a 3 boot rating, this event had something to offer every runner whatever their level of experience. There was a choice of four distances – 6.7 miles, half marathon, 20 miles and marathon, all of which were held on a hilly course and depending upon the distance, involved multiple laps. Plenty of support and encouragement from the volunteers and a spirit of friendliness and sportsmanship between the runners made for an enjoyable day.
Sarah Graham of Valley Striders AC won the 6.7 mile race in 45:29; Mike Cropper of Thirsk & Sowerby Harriers was the first male in 46:19.
James Eaton was the winner in the Half Marathon, finishing in 1:22:40; Jenny Burrage was the fastest female in 1:46:49.
In the 20 miles race, Alistair Ryder was first home in 2:14:47; Meghan Bentley of Hyde Park Harriers was the first lady in 2:41:17.
The Marathon was won by Terry Forrest in 2:52:01; Sally Ford was the winning lady in 3:38:27.
There was a daffodil medal for every finisher and a goody bag containing a bunch of daffodils. Not forgetting the all-important cake.
Image courtesy of Andrew Swales Photography.