Adam Craig and Gerda Steyn were only a few seconds off the course records at Friday’s (28 August) Mid Cheshire 5K where the racing was fast and furious as expected and welcomed. The event was split into two graded races as part of the Covid-secure guidelines and both were live streamed on social media. 

As well as changes to the race format there was a new trophy for the 1st male, named in memory of GB International athlete Nick Jones who passed away earlier this year. Nick was a keen supporter of this race and this trophy is a permanent reminder of the passion and enthusiasm of a very talented man. 

There were limited numbers due to the guidelines surrounding social distancing and the organiser, Run Cheshire & Gogledd Cymru created two races to further enable this. The sub-16.30 began at 7pm followed by the 16.30+ open to runners of all abilities at 7.30pm. Participants enjoyed a speedy course on rolling roads in Kingsley at an event that has a reputation as one of the quickest 5Ks in the country. 

The stage was set for a hard fought contest in the elite race. As it got underway, a breakaway group of three led the field before Adam Craig and Omar Ahmed pulled away. They were shoulder to shoulder until Adam Craig of Inverclyde AC/Team New Balance accelerated, crossing the finish line to win in 13:52 – seven seconds outside the course record of 13:45. Omar Ahmed of Birchfield Harriers was second in 14:08, only a second ahead of Nigel Martin of Sale Harriers Manchester who came third in 14:09.

For the women, Gerda Steyn of Nedbank RC ran strongly to win in 15:44 – six seconds outside the course record of 15:38. Samantha Harrison of Charnwood AC finished second in 15:48 and Sophie Wood of Sale Harriers Manchester third in 16:30.

A vote of thanks from the organiser to everyone that made this first Covid-secure race happen and who aims to keep staggered starts for the spring race regardless of the situation.

Image courtesy: Mick Hall Photos