Rugby 10 - Barby, 31st October
The Rugby 10 mile road race including the Warks County AA championships was held over a new course based in Barby and including Kilsby & Hillmorton as well as the ascent of the famed Cart Hill in Barby between 6 & 7 miles which provided a real test in the second half of the race.
The race attracted a field of over 170 entries in spite of the major Birmingham League Cross-Country race the previous day which reduced the quality at the front of the field, but nevertheless ensured a competitive edge to the front of the field. A group of 4 athletes broke away after the first mile in Kilsby until eventual winner, Nick Pacey of Silson Joggers moved clear approaching the half way mark. He pressed on to win in a time of 59-14, whilst his brother Andy took 5th place. Dan Pebody of Cherwell Runners held off a fast finishing D Owen of Cheltenham to claim second place. First finisher for R&N was John Saw who ran the race of his life to claim 4th place in a time of 60-19 in spite have having run the Cross-Country at Leamington the previous day. First R&N veteran was young athletes Max Chippington who finished 20th overall in a time of 68-41, closely followed by Adrian Hodson in 69-16.
In the Ladies race Anne-Marie Smith of Cov Godiva ran an impressive time of 64-19 to record a personal best as she continued her recovery from injury. Second placed lady was Sally Baker of R&N and Rugby Tri club.
R&N would like to thank Barby Cricket Club and the Arnold Arms for their help in staging the race and would also like to give special thanks to TESCO, Rugby who once again provided the goodie bags to all finishers.
