There were big wins for Ben Gamble and Anna Hollingworth at yesterday’s (Sunday 6 November) Flying Fox 10 which was race 18 in the NSRRA league programme. They didn’t hang around...

They were part of a 175-strong field at the Flying Fox 10 on a damp and overcast morning in Standon, Staffordshire. This is an undulating 10 mile race that sets a challenge for the experienced runner as well as the newcomer on quiet country lanes.   

Away they went at 10.30am from All Saints First School along a route that consisted of a large loop and a small loop which included a few ups and downs to keep things interesting. The grey skies didn’t spoil the views of the surrounding countryside as the runners passed through Weston, Bowers, Chapel Chorlton and Maer before turning into the school and on to the finish. 

Ben Gamble looked calm and in control throughout as he flew around the course to win the 2022 Flying Fox 10 in 53:28 and a new course record (the previous record was 53:35 also set by Ben). City of Stoke AC’s Jordan Thomas finished second in 54:00 with Vinnie Martin third in 55:06. 

Anna Hollingworth of Stone MM had an outstanding run. The HPR coached athlete led the way to finish the women’s winner in 1:01:41 – a PB by more than 7 minutes. Sarah Mackness was second in 1:04:14 and Stoke FIT’s Amanda Kelly third in 1:07:43. 

The full set of results can be found via the runABC Midlands Race Listings page.   

Amongst the prizes on offer were Moorland Pottery mugs for each group winner. All finishers received a bottle of Flying Fox beer that was needed after their thirsty work!   

A huge round of applause to Stone Master Marathoners (Stone MM) and everyone involved in delivering a well organised event. 

NSRRA have two races left to wrap up the season – the Meerbrook 15K on 19 November and the Cheddleton 10K on 26 November. 

See you all at Meerbrook!

Image courtesy of Bryan Dale (Race Photos).