Harrogate Mid week League - Starbeck - 22nd May 2008

Rachel Ross-Russell

A team of twelve Richmond and Zetland Harriers made the journey to Starbeck, Harrogate on Thursday 22nd May for the second event in the Harrogate Road Race League, giving the team every opportunity of improving their current standings, as they are already eyeing up the Veterans Trophy once again. The route covered 8.6 km, taking in roads and tracks en-route, which proved to be a good course on a pleasant evening weather-wise. A total of 289 runners taking part, saw a healthy turn-out from numerous clubs and some excellent results for the Harriers themselves.

Jon Orange assumed his 100% record and was first finisher and victor once again, which also meant he was first MV40 in 29.15 and he will also be looking to keep up this momentum as the season progresses. Only a matter of 7 seconds behind was Under 18 athelete, Doug Roberts, who had a fantastic run to claim 2nd position, with a time of 29.22, over 4 minutes ahead of his closest age group rival. There was then a tight-knit group of athletes as Tad Zaranko crossed the line in 16th place with 32.17 and was promptly followed by Tony Ryder, who collected 17th place with a time of 32.28, while Ian Scott was only 2 seconds adrift and took a well-deserved 18th position on the night. Paul Roberts continued the team’s form to claim 24th position in 33.06, while Rachel Ross-Russell had a fantastic race, taking the honours of 1st lady and 39th overall in a time of 34.01, proving that she is once again very much competitive, following several months out with a knee injury. Taff Rogers was next home, running well to finish in 34.14, which earned him 45th place and with Kelley Haniver claiming 67th place (and 7th lady) in 35.47, the team was in a great position.

It was then the turn of the younger athletes, showing that they have what it takes to compete very ably at this level. Jo Adams, who was the next runner across the line in 97th place and a time of 37.48, followed by Adam Scott in 38.16, taking 106th position. Ian Hepworth brought the team home with another consistent run, taking 162nd place in 41.36, which places Richmond and Zetland 3rd on the night and 1st in the Vet’s category. With three meetings remaining in this league, there is certainly plenty to play for.