Sunday 3rd July 2011

Race statistics - 5kms multi terrain, conditions hot and dry

Results Thirsty Three and Gallop

Photos White Flyer

This years Tony Bolton 'Thirsty Three' multi terrain race held over canal bank, field and road was held in blistering sunshine - not bad given the torrential rain of previous years! The 3.25+mile course saw Glynn Kay formerly of Horwich produce a class run from start to finish in 18 mins 22 secs. Chorley AC's Mike Chalfont vet 40 chased all the way but ended up 50 seconds adrift at the finish with fast closing clubmate junior male Fergus Tallon securing comfortably third place. Blackburn Harrier Mark Almond took the first veteran place in 19:32. Former Bolton runner Steve McVey belied his 50+years to take his veteran class but finish 6th overall in 20:20. Ever improving Bryony Curtis from Edinburgh club Hunters Bog Trotters easily won the female section in 21:41 after a sprint finish with Chorley AC's Simon Townsend. Chorley Harrier junior Emma Plant worked hard to secure 2nd female in 24:36 with Red Rose's vet 40 Debbie Kirkman some 18 seconds behind. Chorley AC trio of Mike Chalfont, Fergus Tallon and Simon Townsend easily won the team event. Notable performances came from Picton Running Club's Sandra Connell and Chorley AC's Mike Coppin who secured first 65 berth!

In the 1 mile "Gallop" for under 13's Hyndburn's George Buckley (M11) produced an excellent run in the heat to finish in 5:53 with young Bolton runner Mabel Horridge (F9) clocking 7 minutes exactly. Liam Blackwell and Caitlin Molloy (F9) both won the under 10 category.

The organisers Heapey and Wheelton Village Hall would like to thank Tony Bolton Sports for their sponsorship and all marshals, officials and helpers for supporting the races