Salisbury runners find their speed at motor circuit

The smooth tarmac of Castle Combe motor racing circuit near Chippenham helped City of Salisbury runners to clock fast times at the Chilly 10k and scoop second place in both the men’s and women’s races, writes John Ruskin.

Salisbury's James Hassan on his way to second in his age group (photo Jackie Hassan)

James Hassan set the pace with a good 38min 33sec for second spot in his age group.

Next came coach Craig Weatherburn with his first sub-40 minute finish in a well-earned 39.55, followed by Al Moutray at 40.25.

The club’s next three finishers all set new marks for the distance: Steve Mitchell with 42.11, Grace Cousins with 47.52 and a commendable 49.38 from Linda Robson for her third personal best in four weeks.

Mel Murphy was next to cross the line in 51.14, then came Helen Carlton in 51.42pb, Lisa Milner 52.58 and Charlotte Routledge 56.15.

Linda Robson grins through the threshold on her way to her a third PB in four weeks (photo Jackie Hassan)

Just outside the hour was Michael O’Connell in a pb 60.18, followed by Amanda Ansell 62.11, Denise von Roretz 62.56, Petra Oyston 68.44, Kathryn Dreyer 79.18 and Vasen Moodley 87.16.

Phil Perry chose the Greenham Common trail marathon to set a new best of 3hours 31mins at the 26.2 mile distance, placing a notable second.

On Sunday, [Dec 1st] a huge group of 90 City of Salisbury runners continue their duel at the top of the Hampshire road race league tables with arch-rivals Winchester AC and Denmead Striders in the Victory 5mile road race near Portsmouth, while others contest the Wiltshire cross country championships at Bath.