On the same day as Uttoxeter, the Leicester Big 10k saw seven Ivanhoe Runners take part, with several runners setting new personal bests. Mark Parker led the squad home in a fine 13th place in 39.28. Behind him and finishing eighth lady was Lucy Arkinstall, timed at 46.58. Emily Partridge ran 54.13, ahead of a trio including Michelle Withey 1.04.30, Jane Connell also 1.04.30 and Jane Bland 1.04.31, the latter two both setting new personal bests. Finally Chrissy Betteridge ran 1.07.40, also setting a new personal best.

On Bank Holiday Monday several Ivanhoe Runners did the Woodhouse May Day Challenge, a 13 mile cross-country trail race across picturesque Leicestershire countryside, complete with tea and cake stops. Chris Lockhart was first home for Ivanhoe in 13th place, in 1.34.19, followed by Phil Stevenson 16th in 1.36.41. Richard Bebbington was 142nd in 1.59.24, followed by Lynda Revill, fresh from her fast London Marathon, clocking 2.00.26 in 147th place.

Tim Sturla clocked 2.06.28 in 183rd, accompanied by Jason Green and Andy Pawley, before a group finished in 199-201st places having run together - Carolyn Osborne 2.09.49, and Victoria Smith and Ingrid Stevenson both 2.09.50. Ange Bebbington enjoyed her run for 2.15.59 as did Ruth Cousin 2.17.58.

Out-running everyone at the weekend in terms of distance was Grania Towle who did the Lightning Challenge at Catton Park. Grania ran as a solo entrant rather than in a team, and completed an amazing 70k over the duration of the 12 hour race, placing her highly in the results.

Written by Kevin Sanders - last updated on 01/05/2017