Hambleton runners take on Endure 24 Leeds

Members of Hambleton Athletics and Running Club (HARC) took part in Endure 24 Leeds, a 24-hour running challenge at Bramham Park.

The club entered a team, a pair and three soloists.

The weekend was one of the warmest of the year which made running the five-mile circuits much tougher than they might otherwise have been.

Part of the course meandered through some woodland areas giving much needed shade, but it was mostly very exposed to the blazing sun. Even the after-dark laps could not be described as cool, and the humidity was pretty unpleasant.

Head coach Chris Lees said: “This event is an extraordinary challenge even for seasoned athletes.

“It requires enormous mental strength, not just physical ability.”

The team of six – Bridget Wilson, Jane Wilkinson, Dave Oldacres, Polly Oldacres, Becky Williams and Gemma Wardle – surpassed their own expectations and managed 100 miles (20 laps) between them, maintaining one person out running continuously for 23 hours.

Chris Lees ran as a soloist with the aim of running/walking alongside other HARC members to give them much-appreciated support.

They all ran the last 100 metres together to cross the finish line for the final time as a team.

Team captain Bridget said: “This was something I thought I would never take part in.

“Well, I joined a team of six from our club. The heat was brutal but what a brilliant weekend.

“There was so much support from everyone. I’m definitely signing up for next year!”

Caroline Pounder and Michael Hollinshead tackled the challenge as a pair.

Caroline was recovering from injury so was thrilled to complete three laps, with Michael storming through seven to bring their total to an impressive 50 miles.

The soloists Nick Wilson and Joanne Sinnott set out to achieve 100 miles each.

Nick completed 70 miles and crossed the finish line hand in hand with his wife, Bridget.

In his own words, Nick now has “unfinished business” and will return next year to grab that exclusive ‘100 miler’ t-shirt.

Jo smashed out 17 laps, that’s 85 miles!

When she crossed the finish line barefoot, Jo’s watch was reading 85.9 miles, so she continued to walk around the event village to make it up to 86.

She too, will be returning next year to join the ‘100 miler’ club.

She said: “This was an epic event, highlighting the meaning of teamwork.

“As a soloist, having the support of the club, whilst they took on their own team challenge, enabled me to get through a hot, humid, grueling 24 hours, completing 17 laps and 86 miles.

“Would I do it again? I’m already signed up for next year.”

The club has thanked everyone who sent supportive messages to the runners, and Ruth Hancock, Victoria Maidwell and Katy Bamber who went along to boost morale with cowbell-ringing, cheering and treats.

If you would like to find out more about what Hambleton Athletics and Running Club offers, please visit their website https://harc.uk/ or email info@harc.uk.

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