Ryde Harriers produced a strong showing at the Salisbury 10-mile Hampshire Road Race League fixture last weekend.
An early ferry crossing from the Isle of Wight was rewarded with a stunning sunrise and a smooth drive to the race venue. A sighting of 2 magpies set the tone for what turned out to be a promising day for the Harriers.
Ahead of the event, club leaders had called for a strong turnout from both men’s and women’s teams in an effort to maintain momentum in the league standings.
At the sound of the starting gun, runners quickly left the track and sports complex to head out onto sunlit country lanes surrounding Salisbury. Despite bright conditions, a challenging easterly wind made for a tough run. Enthusiastic crowd support along early residential streets gave way to quiet determination as the race settled into rhythm.
Gary Marshall, representing the Harriers, found himself in the leading group early on, pacing alongside a young runner from Denmead Striders and another competitor with a strong track record at this event. At around 4 miles, a Salisbury runner joined the front pack.
Gary said:
“I was feeling great and very comfortable and managed to have a nice little position in and behind the front 2. Through halfway I could sense the competition was labouring a little but decided to keep tracking as we were.”
At around 7 miles, the pace increased with the more experienced runners testing the field.
Gary continued:
“Not long after, the welcoming sight of the cathedral came into view. So here it was – opportunity. I decided I was going to stay with him through 9 miles, then if he didn’t up the pace and kick on, I would take the initiative.
“So with three quarters of a mile to go I ramped up the effort and hoped all the recent parkruns and track sessions would be enough to see me home. Thankfully it was.”
With solid performances across the field from Ryde Harriers, the club’s presence remains strong in the league tables, keeping title dreams very much alive.
Harriers’ Results
- Gary Marshall – 00:55:13 (1st Overall, 1st Vet 40)
- Daniel Furmidge – 00:57:53 (10th Overall, 1st Vet 50)
- Leon Newnham – 01:01:10
- Keaan Amin – 01:03:04
- Trevor McAlister – 01:05:14
- Geoff Kite – 01:21:14
- Emma Clemens – 01:21:47
- Catherine Young – 01:26:08
- Natalie Rose – 01:30:31
