Hutchinson leads way for Stratford AC at Ryton

TIM Hutchinson defied the humid conditions to claim second place in his age group at Spa Striders’ Ryton 5 race, near Leamington Spa.

An impressive 17 members of Stratford-upon-Avon AC competed, as they bid to pick up points in the club’s own grand prix competition, while the race was also part of the Warwickshire Road Race League.

Hutchinson led the team home, averaging just under six minutes a mile, in a time of 29.54 for 26th overall. His time was five seconds quicker than last year’s effort.

Next to finish for the club was 19-year-old Sam Weaving (33rd, 30.35), who nearly didn’t run due to illness, followed by Malcolm Bowyer (75th, 33.36).

Just 25 seconds separated the next three club members. Lynne Hinson (141st, 37.20) followed her two recent half marathons at Stratford and Worcester with another impressive performance.

Hinson was followed by Pete Sugden (144th, 37.20) who was just nine seconds ahead of Luke Watkins (150th, 37.45. Annie Cox (181st, 39.35) continued her fine run of form in local races.

Dave Maundrell (203rd, 41.30) ran an impressive race in very warm conditions and was followed by Suzi Graham (213rd, 41.55) returning to form.

Ruth Calderbank (230th, 43.31) was once again first in her age group, followed by Jan McLure (244th, 45.05) just failing to break the 45-minute barrier.

Only 38 seconds separated three Stratford ladies, led home by Kate Sergent (254th, 46.19).

Sergent was second in her age group and just 11 seconds ahead of Bev Brigden (256th, 46.30). Tara Lambert (258th, 46.57) was next to finish.

Nic Reynolds (289th, 50.35) and Philip Abrams (290th, 51.02) were followed by Martyn Sergent (295th, 52.20).

316 runners completed the race which was won by David Mulvee in a time of 26.27. The first lady to finish in 53rd place was Sarah Rose in 31.46.