Hot weather made it heavy going for runners at Sunday’s (17 July) Walton Wobble Summer 10K. The thermometer was climbing as well as the runner, battling their way up and down an attractive route at this tough event with proceeds going to Race against Blood Cancer. 

The second summer edition of this event from JC Race Solutions included a 10K, 5K and Fun Run which, due to the weather warning of extreme heat, had earlier start times. 8.45am for the Fun Run and 9.45am for the 10K and 5K and the organisers thoughtfully provided a table containing sun lotion for participants to use.  

It started from Walton High School, Stafford whose address is ‘The Rise’ – giving you a good idea of what the race would be like in terms of elevation. There was a long pull up to Brocton Heights, that felt harder in the heat, then into Cannock Chase and a water station at half way for the 10K runners. 

The Hill Dodger 5K offered an alternative for anyone who wanted to give the climb a miss, especially in soaring temperatures.  

There were plenty of marshals, all of whom were cheerful and efficient as they guided runners around the hilly course. A special mention goes to the young girl with the water spray bottle near the end, who kept everyone cool as they readied themselves for a last gasp dash to the finish. 

Paul Ward of Telford AC raced across the line to win the Walton Wobble Summer 10K in 36:38. Leo Loughran of Belle Vue Racers was second in 40:09 and Tayne Cornelius of Cannock Chase Trail Runners third in 40:55. 

City of Stoke AC’s Kelly Butler was the winning lady in 43:47. Charlotte Beddow of GB Ultras was second in 44:42 with Sam Morley of Rugeley Runners third in 45:45. 

In the 5K, Sally Ball of Stafford Triathlon was the winner in 27:50. Lewis Gray the male winner in 35:12. 

Results from both races can be found via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

Finishers collected their medal, water and bananas then treated themselves to a sweet or savoury crepe as a reward for surviving the hill.     

For those of you looking for cooler races.... keep your eyes open for the date of the 2023 Winter Wobble 10K.

Image courtesy of Claire Walker.