The summer solstice has been celebrated since prehistory in many cultures. In Chippenham, since at least 2014, midsummer is celebrated by local athletes entering the Chippenham Longest Day 10k race.
This year’s event was held at 7.30pm on Wednesday 19th June, the closest Wednesday to the solstice. Among the 840 runners keen to celebrate the long summer’s evening were four of Frome’s finest. Paul Waterer (MSEN) crossed the line first for Frome in 00:51:28. He was followed by Emma Evans (FV40) in 00:55:27, Alistair Smith (MV60) in 00:55:33 and Anne Porter (FV60), whose time of 00:57:46 earned her 3rd position in category.
Just over a week later, on Thursday, 27th June, yet more runners lined up for the Great Chalfield 10k, a road race over a certified accurate 10-kilometre course through the picturesque countryside around Broughton Gifford. Joseph Donworth (MSEN) was on flying form once again and came second overall with a time of 00:35:53. Anne Porter (FV60) crossed the line in 00:59:19. On Saturday, 29th June, two Frome stalwarts took on a different kind of challenge in the form of the Midnight Mountain Marathon. Set in the Brecon Beacons, participants have to complete a challenging marathon course through forests and up mountains. Starting at 5.30pm, runners have to complete the route before midnight. Ian Holmes (MSV) crossed the line in 05:54:53, followed by Victoria Penman (FSV) in 06:45:25. Slightly closer to home on the following day, a number of Frome runners took part in the inaugural Melksham Town FC 10k. Ted Sprules (MV60) was the first Frome Club runner to complete the fast, flat road race in 00:41:54. Hot on his heels was Peter Clardy (MV60), who posted a time of 00:43:57. Paul Waterer (MSEN) crossed the line in 00:50:39. Alistair Smith (MV60) was in action again on the 30th, this time over in Oxfordshire for the Thame 10k. He completed the route in an impressive 00:55:56.
Frome Running Club offers both on and off-road training and welcomes new members, whatever the ability. For more details, visit www.fromerunningclub. co.uk.
