As the oldest half marathon in the UK, and in its 51st year, its reputation stands it in good stead. Ron Hill won this race the first time he ran it in 1964, and still holds the course PB of 1:04 from 1969.
The BVR team of 6 set off at 2pm, heading out of Freckleton village. Despite being much cooler than last year, the wonderful Lancashire supporters were out in force, and encouraging marshals provided well needed sponges at the 4 water stations. This is a scenic road race and, where the roads weren’t closed, drivers were considerate. With the first 5 or so undulating miles under your belt, you come to my personal highlight of the course, Wrea Green. Anyone who doesn’t think the North West is beautiful should visit this picture perfect village, complete with its own village green and duck pond. From here you head towards Lytham, knowing you’re on the home stretch. Admittedly the 3 or so miles on the road from Lytham to Freckleton is not the best, but the pavements are obviously traffic free and the miles are flat.
Vic Walsh crossed the line first for the club in an epic time of 1:29. He was soon followed by Andy Wood with a course PB of 1:44, which has put him to the top of the Championship leader board. First lady came home next, doing her first half marathon, Nicole Kokolakis in 2:10. Next came Dad, Themis, running pretty much the whole course together on Father’s Day, in 2:12. Final lady home was Maria Harvey-Ashcroft who used this as a start to her marathon training.
This still leaves one, myself, who fell over 2 hours in at 11.5 miles, pushing hard for a decent PB. Thanks to the marshals and ambulance crew who were very kind. My first DNF but I’ll be back to nail it in 2016!
Vic, Nicole, Themis and Maria were Freckleton first timers. Ruth
