Whilst some members headed to Chester to take on the marathon and metric marathon, another group packed their bags, laced their trainers and headed on the first club trip abroad since 2019.

Organised by Matt Pleass, the team headed over to sunny Lisbon to run in what is widly considered to be one of the most beautiful races in the world.

A choice of an 8.5km, half marathon or full marathon meant there was something for everyone, however, what we weren't expecting was an unprecedented heatwave, threatening temperatures of 33 degrees on race day.

Less than 24 hours before, the race organisers made the right (if not slightly close to the wire) decision to move the start time earlier to avoid as much heat as possible, a very wise and welcomed decision from us Brits!

Andrea Trickett is no stranger to an overseas marathon, and here she was again flying the marathon flag for Team Ivanhoe, taking on the 26.2 miles and finishing in an amazing 3:51.00. Well done Andrea, we are so proud of you!

The 8.5km course was enjoyed by Ellen Bolton who finished in a fantastic 54:35. Kenny Ashton also took on the course finishing in 1:02.19 as he works towards the London Marathon next year, and it was great to welcome honorary Ivanhoe member for the weekend, Paula Hough, who finished in 1:03.07.

Also running the 8.5km route was club trip organiser, Matt Pleass, who finished first for Ivanhoe in an impressive 32.57. Clearly not enough for him, he did loops of the half marathon course to cheer on fellow Ivanhoe Runners, giving us all some encouragement. You can decide if it's admirable or crazy, but it certainly was appreciated!

Over on the 13.1 mile course 14 blue vests rallied together, taking in the stunning views from the infamous Vasco da Gama Bridge.

Back first was Ian Bolton, finishing in a rapid 1:30.03, followed by Andrew Stanley (1:41.07) and Andrew Hough (1:41.48). First back for the ladies was Charlene Taylor, crossing the line in an amazing 1:40.15 and looking glamorous as always! Amelia Monaghan (1:48.58) and Georgie Smith (1:49.40) followed, having run most of the race together, with Amelia coming straight off the back of a half marathon PB at Leicester just one week prior.

George Giles and Pat Horn were next up finishing in 1:51.49 and 1:52.20 respectively.

Next up a special mention must go to another honorary Ivanhoe Runner for the weekend, Rich Kinloch, who crossed the line in 2:01.19, but only because he took a wrong turn, veering off with the 8.5km runners before having to come back on himself to complete the half marathon route. Still a really impresaive time though, and we're not laughing Rich... honestly.

The next pocket of blue came in the form of Mindy Ashton (2:01.47), Paul Averillo (2:03.04) and Gemma Shaw who ran a PB in 2:03.13, we aren't sure what's more impressive - running a PB in those conditions, or the fact that she had 'no idea' until a couple of miles out. Alongside Gemma was Ruth Enion, finishing in 2:03.15.

Mukesh Deva completed team Ivanhoe, finishing in 2:21.04, taking 4+ mins off his GNR time from the month prior.

Celebrations were a must after completing the racing, with a few sore heads and dancing feet to show for it the next day!

Overall such a wonderful trip, with memories and friendships to last a life time. Thank you Matt for organising and roll on the next one!

Written by Emily Partridge - last updated on 14/10/2023