Rain fails to dampen spirits

DESPITE torrential rain around 1,800 runners braved the elements to take part in the second New Balance English Half Marathon at Warrington yesterday (Sunday).
But 700 people who registered for the event failied to turn up at the Victoria Park event which was won by James Connor from Kent Athletic Club in an impressive 1.07.48, just one second outside his personal best, which was excellent considering the appaling weather conditions.
Runner-up was fellow Kent Athletic Club runner and former Warringtonian John Gilbert who clocked 108.18, just two seconds outside his personal best.
First woman past the post was Jenny Guard from Leeds City Athletic Club in 1.23.42, just five seconds outside her personal best.
Event organiser Mike James was delighted with the turn out for the event, which passed without major incident as 1,800 runners took to the roads of south Warrington through Latchford, Grappenhall, Appleton Thorn and Stockton Heath.
The route was slightly different to last year’s inaugural race to ensure runners’ safety.
Various local charities were represented, with nearly 70 representing St Rocco’s Hospice, while other local charities included the Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace and the Wolves Foundation.
Volunteers from various local organisations helped out manning water stations, marshalling the route and handing out medals, while stewarding and security was provide by Warrington based Akme Security.
Plans are already in the pipeline for next year’s event which will take place on Sunday September 18. A special Golden ticket for Life is also being launched which means people can take part in the event “for life” for a one off payment of just £99 which can be booked online now.
Pictures and a video of the event will be uploaded tomorrow (Monday) on the event’s official media partner warrington-worldwide.
More information is available at www.english-half.co.uk

Pictures show (top) winner James Connor and runner up John Gilbert with event organiser Mike James, the start of the event and members of Cheshire Fire Service who completed the half marathon in full kit!

Warrington Borough Council leader Ian Marks and Chief executive Diana Terris celebarte completing six miles of the event as part of a council relay team.
For more pictures from the event CLICK HERE