Athletics
HUNDREDS of athletes lined up for the return of the popular Raby Races.
Organised by Teesdale AC, 5k and 10k runs were staged in the grounds of Raby Castle, following a slightly different course compared to the last time the events were staged in 2019 due to the redevelopments currently taking place at the historic landmark.
The 5k event attracted just under 100 runners, while some 280 signed up for the longer race.
First home in the 10k was Darlington Harrier Liviu Ionita in 34.34mins, 11 seconds ahead of Morpeth Harrier Ian Harding.
Making it a double success for Darlington Harriers was Jade Hutchinson, who was the first female home, in a time of 41.52, with Tyne Bridge Harrier Rebecca Blain finishing second in 43.36.
In the 5k event, Durham City Harrier Ethan Stokes led from start to finish, coming home in 18.49, ahead of Jonathan Attwood, of Crook and District AC. First female was Keira Chippendale in 23.06.
Although runners from the host club were on marshalling duties, there was still plenty of local interest.
In the 5k, Evenwood Road Runners’ Adam Laverick and Noah Hoyle came home in 11th and 12th places, with Finlay Kirkup in 21st.
Scott Hedley, who is normally seen on the cricket field playing and coaching at Raby Castle CC, ran the 5k to raise money for the junior section.
He finished a creditable 35th in 30.49 – but more importantly raised some £425 for club funds.
In the 10k, Oliver Blenkinsop, running in the colours of Teesdale Triathlon Club, finished 16th in 40.11, while Ian Holliday crossed the line in 43.44 for 31st place.
Paul Townsend was first home for Evenwood Road Runners in 50.25, while Lauren Hodgson and Julie Tinkler both broke 55 minutes.
Teesdale AC officials said they were pleased with the way the event had gone.
Planning had begun back in November with the country still in the grip of the Covid omicron alert and uncertainty at the time as to whether the races could go ahead.
That led to the decision to go with the 5k and 10k and not stage 1k and 3k fun runs this time.
