MORE than 500 athletes from the very young to the vastly more experienced converged on the dale for the annual Teesdale AC Raby Castle runs.
Clubs from across the North East and North Yorkshire were represented at the event, which was staged in perfect conditions and offered runners the usual challenging course.
In the main event, the 10k, Sunderland Harrier Ian Dixon was first home, while Louise Talman, of Darlington Harriers, won the ladies’ event.
There were top three finishes for Evenwood Road Runners’ Gary Atkinson and Sarah Norman in the 10k, which attracted a field of 255.
In the 5k, Joshua Wraith, of Durham City Harriers was first of the 121 runners to cross the finish line in 18.55mins, while Chloe Fairclough, of Birtley AC, was first female, in 23.30.
In addition to the two senior events, runs for younger athletes at 3k and 1.2k attracted 180 entries.
The 3k was won by William Jardine in 13.28mins, while first female was Grace Carter, who was third overall.
Ten-year-old Teesdale AC runner Aidan Marmont finished fourth in 13.50mins
Race director Skye Archer said the event had gone well.
“It was the first time for chip timing so there were one or two hiccups particularly due to so many registering on the day.
“We could not run the event without help of all the volunteers, particularly The Clique for marshalling, Teesdale AC members and their families, and Up and Running SRG from Darlington that man the water station.
“We were fortunate once again with glorious weather,” she said.
“The range of races meant there was something for everyone which also makes it a real family event, and many took the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Raby to picnic.”
Full results for 5k & 10K are available on the Racebest website – go to www.teesdale ac.com and follow the links.
The date has already been set for next year’s Raby Runs – they will take place on Sunday, May 10.
“We hope to continue to build the event,” said Ms Archer.
