Donald Duck led the warm up and was in ‘quacking’ good form, running in Sunday’s (3 April) Whitchurch 10K. He was part of a 600+ field at this well organised and supported event where there was plenty of April sunshine along with the smiles and miles.

The weather was perfect for the 2022 Sir John Talbot’s School Whitchurch 10K that was delighted to return following a leave of absence as a result of the pandemic. Race Director Hayley Alldridge and team worked hard to deliver a professional and enjoyable event and the townspeople played their part too, encouraging everyone around the undulating course. 

There was a children’s fun run at 9am. At 9.40am, Donald Duck a.k.a. Simon Williams from Vital Health & Wellbeing at Hill Valley got everyone loosened up with a fun routine. 

People lined up on the sports field, positioning themselves near one of the four pacers in vivid orange t-shirts emblazoned with ‘45’, ‘50’, ‘55’ and ‘60’ minutes. Away they went at 10am, leaving the field and heading out around the town on a traffic-free course that included more than a few climbs and some descents, an unofficial ‘jelly baby’ station at 6K and a lively atmosphere throughout. 

Jacob Cann of Newham & Essex Beagles AC was the winner in 32:08. Oliver Blake of Oswestry Olympians took second in 32:19 and Jon Bowie of Mercia Fell Runners third in 32:35. 

Rachael Handley was the winning female in 41:02 with Emily Sanders second in 41:59 and Lauren Morley of Shrewsbury AC third in 42:35. 

Donald Duck finished in 48:09. A full set of results can be viewed via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page. 

Finishers received a medal, technical t-shirt and treats.  

Entries have opened for the 2023 Whitchurch 10K. Will Donald Duck make a return appearance?    

Image courtesy of Simon Williams.