Kirsty Longley, the Liverpool Pembroke Sefton star, has a fearsome competitive reputation but even by her standards the performance in the Lytham 10K was compelling. Comfortably in the lead in the women`s race she ran off course at an un-marshalled point and spent about two minutes finding her way back. Most would have given up then and jogged home but Kirsty set off ferociously to catch other female competitors. She reeled them in and with only one remaining stormed past the startled lady to win by half a minute in a time of 39.08. She richly deserved the handsome prize and the respect of those who witnessed this feat.
The London Marathon is traditionally preceded by mini-marathons. Representing the North West Rosie Johnson was a good third and helped the region to second team place in the Under 17 race. Dan Slater also picked up a silver team medal for the North West in the Under 15 race finishing 16th. In the main event Jamie Doolan ran a very respectable 3.48.09 to finish just ahead of Steve Lennon who had some difficulties but recovered to record 3.48.12. Sammy Rashid was hoping for a sub-3 hour performance but his world came apart at 17 miles as his calf muscle crashed. Determined to finish for the charity he represented he walked the last 7 miles or so finishing on 3.58.29. Another one of LPS`s committed and determined runners he is already looking forwards to next year`s event.
Charles Gains
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