Local runners impress in White Peak Marathon

Runners faced a strong headwind on the climb up the Tissington Trail from the start at Thorpe, but this did not hamper a fast pace as leaders reached the 11-mile point at Parsley Hay in 65 minutes.

With the wind now behind them as they tackled the High Peak Trail, Tim Clayton of North Derbyshire Running Club increased his lead and eventually crossed the line in first place at Cromford Meadows in 2 hours 46 minutes and 46 seconds.

Kevin Doyle of Kimberworth Striders was second and Nick Sparks of Sheffield Tri Club third. Matlock’s Rob Atkin had a good run in 12th, just in front of former winner Peter Bates of Bury.

Emma Stevenson of Nottingham was the first woman home, in 23rd place overall, taking 3 hours and 18 minutes in what was her first ever marathon.

Redhill won the team race with 66 points, while Kingston won the team race with 25 points and Matlock were second.

In the half marathon, starting at Friden, all 242 runners managed to stay in front of the pursuing Marathoners to the finish.

Matlock’s Colin Davenport started very fast and ran away from the field from the outset.

Choosing the notoriously difficult solo run option and spurning any possible help from the opposition, he stayed ahead all the way and was first across the line in 1 hour 15 minutes and 17 seconds .

Darren Nockels of Kingston was second and the unattached Alex Gilbert third. Steve Bennett of North Derbyshire was first vet 50 and Peter Spencer of Milltown Milers was first vet 60.

In the ladies race Kate Wright of Stratford was first to finish in ninth position overall followed by Stephanie Brookes in 13th place.

Briefly suspending preparation for the forthcoming Iron Man Triathlon, Matlock’s Christine Howard was satisfied with her third place.