Rain doesn't dampen spirits for Mels Milers' annual 10k

Overnight rain could not dampen runners' spirits in Mels Milers Jogging Club's 14th annual 10k race around Christ's Hospital School and the Downs Link.
Mels Milers annual 10k at Christ's Hospital. Picture by Jon FittonMels Milers annual 10k at Christ's Hospital. Picture by Jon Fitton
Mels Milers annual 10k at Christ's Hospital. Picture by Jon Fitton

The weather didn’t change the minds of 300 local club and social runners from taking part in Bluecoats Sports Centre-based club’s event on Sunday.

Chichester runner and last year’s winner James Baker took the early lead and sped home with a chip time of 33mins 46secs.

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He was followed a minute later by James Espie, of Worthing Striders in 34-40, while Arena 80 AC runner Timmy Gedin was third in 34-55.

The women’s race was won by 21-year-old Emily Moore, of Chichester Runners, in 39-36. Second place was Caroline Wood, of Arena 80 AC, in 42-20 and Paula Blackledge, of Brighton & Hove, came third with a time of 43-30.

The annual event takes place during the Easter period in the grounds of Christs Hospital School. Runners start from the historic quadrangle, through the arches, around the grounds and onto Downs Link, heading towards Southwater. The race, then continues around the lake, returning to Christ’s Hospital School.

Each year, the running club chooses a charities nominated by their members, to benefit from the proceeds of the race.

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This year, two charities were chosen, Sussex Cancer Fund and MacMillan Cancer Support.

These were selected in fond memory of former Mels Miler club secretary, avid runner and winner of numerous 50+ age categories Dawn Piechoczek, who sadly died in October 2015.

In memory of her, family, friends and club members dedicated the womens’ 50+ category in her honour.

Jenny Hughes, of Arena 80 AC, became the first winner of this prestigious award, finishing in 45-00.

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Lucy Egan, of Hove Hornets won the 40+ category, in 46-05 and the youthful and uplifting Sue Garner, won the over-60 age group in 51-32.

The men’s age categories were won by Fittleworth Flyers Michael Rix, in the 40+ age group in 36-50.

Local resident and Horsham Jogger Pete O’Conner was determined to win the 50+ category, which he had won in previous years, and finished in 36-58.

Anthony Lintern of Crawley AC, won the 60+ in 43-58, while Roger Osgood of Havant AC, won the 70+ category in 51-19.

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Youngster Henry Miller, who at 15-year-old, finished in 39-57.

For more details, club information and full results, visit www.melsmilers.co.uk or telephone 01403 247572.

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