VIDEO: Sport in 2014 - Chichester Half Marathon

The Chichester Half Marathon is today’s featured sporting memory of 2014 as our run through the year’s most memorable events and matches nears its end.
Winner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise AdamsWinner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise Adams
Winner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise Adams

It was the third running of the 13-mile contest since it was revived by Children on the Edge and Chichester District Council in 2012.

Ideal conditions helped make the race a huge success – and there was a very familiar face leading home the field.

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More than 700 finishers crossed the line at Chichester College as hundreds turned out to support the wide range of serious athletes and fun runners.

Winner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise AdamsWinner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise Adams
Winner James Baker (middle), second-placed Graham Russ (left) and third place for Richard Murphy Picture by Louise Adams

By 8.30am the atmosphere in the race village at Chichester College was buzzing as the runners prepared themselves for the off. At 9am, the runners were sent on their way by Sally Taylor, presenter of BBC’s South Today, Chichester District Council chairman Martyn Bell and Chichester College principal Shelagh Legrave.

The runners looked a splendid sight as they streamed along West Street and East Street, across Oaklands Park and out in to the country to take in Trundle Hill, returning to Chichester by Centurion Way. It was a tough and challenging course – but a rewarding experience for all the finishers and the organisers.

The winner for the third year running was popular Chichester Runners member James Baker in an impressive time of 1hr 13min 05sec. He held the lead from the start and his position as winner was never in doubt.

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He finished more than seven minutes ahead of Graham Russ in second place. After the second mile, Baker was increasing his lead over second place by half a minute each mile.

In third place was Richard Murphy of Denmead Striders in 1.22.03.

Tomorrow: Goal legend returns to Bognor