THERE was a fun and friendly atmosphere as runners from across the region were greeted with glorious sunshine for this year’s Rugby Half Marathon.
Over 800 runners and hundreds more spectators descended upon Rugby for one of the Midlands’ most exciting half marathon events, which was organised by North Wales sports event specialists Always Aim High Events.
Coming out on top in the men’s race was Stuart Spencer in 1:09.22, who dominated the deceptively hilly course and finished nearly five minutes ahead of second-placed Chris Jordan, who crossed the finish line in 1:13.56, while Callum Rowlinson was third in 1:15.19.
The women’s race was a closer run affair with eventual winner Rosanna Andrews (1:29.28) leading second-placed Laura Heath (1.39.48) by just over a minute.
The gap to third was larger, with Laura Heath finishing nearly four minutes ahead of third place Joanna Spencer in 1.34.45.
Taking place at the same time as the half marathon was the Rugby Fun Run, which saw 13-year-old Joe Harries dominate the race with a time 29.44 and Sophie Mccammond won the women’s event with a very respectable time of 34.59.
The festival of running continued into the afternoon with the junior race where local children took part with all of them receiving a bespoke medal for participating.
Kian Ludford won the junior race after completing the 1km course in a time of 6.32.
