St Helens Striders were out in force at the weekend, with many members taking to the trails, mountains and roads to take part in some challenging events.
Seasoned fell-runner, Kevin Brennan took Daniel Cheetham under his wing to support him through his first fell race in the stunning Wansfell Monuntain Race. Facing some highly technical descents and 800m climbs summiting Wansfell Pike twice over the 7 mile course, Cheetham proved himself to be a natural at the discipline finishing in 1:10:01, just behind Brennan in 1:09:53. Keen snowboarder Carla Langley, enjoyed exploring the slopes in a different way with this also being her first fell race. She clearly has the bug as next weekend will see her race up Snowdon. Hill enthusiast Claire Blennerhassett finished the race in 1:44:09 with Langley following her home at 1:57:31.
The ever-inspiring Collette Flaherty again showed her strength and endurance, completing the 57km Reservoir Dogs Race. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Collette completed this course containing 3,000m of ascent in an incredible 8 hours 6.
Ann Johnson has had an impressive 2018, with personal best times coming thick and fast. Saturday’s Endurance Store McMillan race saw her win her first trophy, with her finishing second female. Kane Green also started the race but showed the perils of being fast and having nobody to chase as he was leading the race until he took a wrong turn and got lost!
Sunday saw numerous Striders travel to Preston for the 10k race. Joanne Jackson has trained hard this year and is reaping the rewards as her times continue to improve. Sunday’s race saw her finish in a time of 53:54. Partner Mike Brunt has also seen his times come crashing down with him finishing strong with 1:06:29, just pipped at the post by Joanne Keogh. Eric Ranson was first Strider to cross the line in a strong time of 44.19. He was followed by David Brisco with Sharon O’Connell being first female Strider to finish.
Main photo – Ann Johnson with her trophy
