Ever since I joined Tunbridge Wells Harriers we have always enjoyed taking part in relay races, especially when the event is designed to be all inclusive with everybody of all standards encouraged to be a part of their Club team. The Beckenham relays were probably the first relay I ran in for the Club and it is a testament to the race that some thirty odd years later they still form an integral part of the racing calendar for so many Clubs. Each year everybody turns up bemoaning the fact that the hill at the end of each leg gets steeper and the same lap seems to get longer each time we run it. We still come every year striving to be as good (if not better) as the previous year.
This year, we entered twelve teams of three and I believed that all was going well until last Sunday when some members had to withdraw because of illness or injury. I should therefore like to thank particularly Craig Chapman, Kieran Fitzpatrick and Cathy Gill who ran for their Club whilst not fully fit and Steve Bright who was persuaded to bring his kit with him, even though he was originally just coming along to support (and he made it to the start line with seconds to spare).
Looking at the opposition it was apparent that Tonbridge AC, Dulwich Runners and Kent AC were all out to be the first team home. This honour was taken by TAC who won comprehensively (by almost a minute) from Dulwich Runners who gained their revenge in the “Mixed Team” category. The Ladies team prize went to South London Harriers.
The fastest Male and Female legs were run by Max Nicholls (Tonbridge – 12:51) and Jo Vickers (SLH – 15:30) respectively.
Our teams all acquitted themselves well and I have attached details of our teams performances. The full results are available on the Beckenham Running Club website.
So thanks to you all for making this Wednesday evening a most enjoyable time for all. Until the same time next year.
Bob Lawrence