52nd Blyth Sands Race - 4th Dec 2011

[Sun 4th Dec 2011] Many thanks to the runners. marshals, helpers and organisers who ensured that the annual Blyth Sands Race was able to take place on Sunday 4th December. At least this year the course was snow free, however the strong winds and cold temperature made the race just as difficult. No ladders required for the groynes this year, although a bit of climbing was required over one or two of them unless you wanted to get your feet wet.

Due to the high tide at 11:00 am the race started 30 minutes later than usual at 11:30 and also resulted in a slightly different route with the race starting on the beach outside the new Dave Stephen’s building and the runners heading south towards Seaton Sluice where they turned and headed back along the water’s edge towards the starting point. Unfortunately it was straight past the start and on towards Blyth Pier, where it was again about turn and back to the finish at the Dave Stephen’s building. Congratulations to the first three of Ingrid Hope, Chloe Price and Rebecca Pease. Fastest time on the day was by David Kirkland of Alnwick Harriers with 29:58, well over 3 minutes quicker than the second fastest. David, who because of the age handicap system was in the last group away worked his way through the field to finish 5^th overall.

Blyth Running Club would like to apologise to Charles Hall and Hayley Masterman, winners of the O55 Male and O35 Female categories respectively, for announcing the incorrect winners at the presentation.