World Mental Health Day 2021

Racing is hard, but runners are lucky. We have each other, we have our fitness and we have a place to escape to. For many running is as much for mental as physical health, and it’s proven a much needed release during the hard times of the pandemic. So, I’d like to ask you all to reflect a little as you read this about how you’ll continue to look after you - in mind as well as body. ​

A courageous Chiltern contingent hit the streets of Manchester today for the Manchester Marathon, adding to the brilliant performances we saw last week in London. Bex Nkoane led the pack home, toughing out a hard last four miles to finish in a brilliant 3.02.15. She was joined by: Caroline Stephens (3.45.13); Christine Taylor (3.46.40); Helen Cholawo (4.11.56); Julia Aliaj (4.16.08 - a fabulous PB time); Rashila Wanninayake (4.40.19) and Rasmi Nanda (4.58.27). Well done, Team!

Katie Royals was in action in what must surely be her home race - the Royal Parks Half. She did brilliantly to come away with a PB of 1.43.02, whilst in the Henley Half, Rik Edwards clocked a 1.48.45.  In a different kind of race, Grant Whitaker managed 8.6 miles in the One Hour City Run in Islington in a time of - well - one hour. He was also first in age category. Neil Turner was first overall in an official time of 20.36 in the Buford Bolt 5k. In the Tring Ridgeway Run, David Saul came home in 1.23.03, Nigel Hoff - 1.27.38. Well done all!
In parkrun news yesterday, Kate Loach came away as first lady at Cassiobury Park (21.46), whilst Ian Lawson earned himself a course PB at Bedford (19.18).​

COMING UP LOCALLY: Chiltern League Cross Country Match 1, the Southern Athletics League Cross Country Relays and the Marlow Half. Check out the Club Calendar for more details.