Yorkshireman Off Road Marathon and Half Marathon
Report by Jo Daniels
Todmorden Harriers were out in force at the Yorkshireman Off-Road Marathon and Half Marathon events on Sunday. The inclement weather didn’t put off the hardened competitors who took to the hills around Haworth for either the 26 mile or 17 mile courses. The squalling rain made for some heavy going at times and there was mud galore out on the hills, but spirits remained high among the Toddies out for a good day’s running.
Mark Rochester took the honours for Todmorden in the full Marathon event. He finished in 17th place and 3rd V40 in a time of 4.12.19. Martin Davies was second for Todmorden (24th overall) in 4.14.20 with Andrew Walker just three places behind him (27th) in 4.15.45. Lucy Hobbs and Mel Blackhurst (pictured) completed the full marathon course in the Pairs event in 4.43.48, finishing 2nd women’s pair.
Andrew Heptinstall took first place for Todmorden in the Half Marathon event. He completed the 17 mile course (considerably more than a half marathon!) in 83rd place in 2.23.25. Second for Todmorden was Bev Wright, 111th in 2.36.52. The third placed Harrier was Matthew Annison, 125th in 2.41.58. Sue Roberts came home in 267th in a time of 2.58.27.