Basnett makes a splash at Knype Pool 5
Jenny Graham was tri-umphant in the women’s race.
There was success for Staffordshire Moorlands AC at Sunday’s (26 February) Knype Pool 5. Matthew Basnett and Jack Ross took first and third places at this popular charity event organised by Biddulph Running Club.
There were chilly temperatures along with blue skies and sunshine at the Knype Pool 5 multi-terrain race that saw a good turnout of runners from Cheshire and Staffordshire clubs. They faced a challenging off-road course in a picturesque location at an event where all the profits go to the Biddulph mayor’s three charities – Alzheimer’s Research UK, Approach Dementia Support and Biddulph Youth Initiative.
The atmosphere was warm and friendly despite the cold as everyone waited to start at 11am after the 1 Mile Fun Run at 10.15am. There was some last minute tightening of laces ready for the paths, trails and fields (and some mud) around Knypersley Reservoir and up the hill to the top of Biddulph Moor. Then back down the steps at 4 miles, past the reservoir and onto the finish.
A few people were dipping their toe into the water (not literally!) at this race, trying it for the first time in the company of more experienced runners.
Matthew Basnett of Staffordshire Moorlands AC was in fourth place amongst the leading pack but surged ahead into the lead and held on to the finish. He won the 2023 Knype Pool 5 in 31:32. Alex Mason of Runners Next The Sea finished second in 32:05 with Basnett’s teammate Jack Ross third in 32:33.
Knutsford Tri Club’s Jenny Graham showed her strength from her tri experience as she raced home as the women’s winner in 36:33 – a gap of a minute and half between her and Joanne Moss of Sandbach Striders who was second in 38:04. Melanie Worthington of Congleton Harriers was third in 38:29.
Browse all the results via the runABC Midlands Race Listing page.
There was a medal, cake and a huge sense of achievement at this community event that was well supported by local businesses. Biddulph Running Club thanked everyone for taking part and those companies who'd supported the event saying that they wouldn’t have been able to do so without their help.
Image courtesy of Bryan Dale (Race Photos).
