FROME runners are keeping warm as the cold weather sets in with a variety of races being run across Somerset, Dorset and Wiltshire last month.
Herepaths were originally important trade and communication routes between settlements during the ninth century. Today, they have largely lost their importance for trade but provide very popular trails for walkers and runners.
On Sunday 30th October, runners tested their mettle on the Herepath Half in Thurlbear, near Taunton. This approximately 13.7-mile multi-terrain race follows the Staple Fitzpaine Herepath Trail in the Blackdown Hills.
Joseph Donworth (MS) was the first Frome club runner to finish, with a time of 01:56:22. He was followed by Martin Taylor (MV50) at 02:14:35. Fleur Rush (FV40) and Rebecca Webb (FS) crossed the line together in 02:24:09.
Over in Dorset, yet more hardy souls lined up for The Stickler, a 10.1 mile multi-terrain race involving over 1,500 feet of gruelling climbing. The route takes runners up over three locally renowned peaks along the beautiful Stour Valley. Ian Holmes (MV40) led the way for Frome, completing the course in 01:27:21. He was followed by Steve Carroll (MV50), who posted a time of 01:29:52.
The changing of the clocks also heralded Calne’s annual Clock Change Challenge. This 10km road race takes runners out along quiet country lanes around Calne and is also race 12 of the Wiltshire Road Race League.
Frome’s club runners turned out in force to win points in this fast, flat race. James Arnall-Culliford (M40) was the first Frome club runner to cross the line with a time of 00:38:19, earning himself fifth in category. Lee Stone (M40) came in just seconds after at 00:38:21 to bag sixth in category. Luke Oakes (MS) posted a time of 00:39:15, which also secured six in category. He was followed by Peter Larman (M40) at 00:40:34, Shane Ford (MS) at 00:46:02 and Anne Porter (F55) at 00:56:30. Sally Brooker (F45) came in next at 00:57:21, followed by Bruce Lockyear (M50) at 01:04:31. After this final race in the 2016 league, Frome Running Club’s A team stand at joint 7th position in Division 1, while the B team is ranked sixth in Division 2.
Over in Shepton Mallet, two more club runners took part in the Shepton Mallet 10km race. Anthony Sprules (M60+) was the first Frome runner to finish, posting a speedy time of 00:41:09, earning himself 9th position overall and first in category. Stephen Ratcliffe (M40-49) completed the course in 00:55:38.
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
