London Marathon - 23rd April 2023
Despite the inclement weather on Sunday, Bourton Roadrunners' Eva Shoemark made her marathon debut at this year's London Marathon.
Supported by a group of her friends and family at various points around the course, the 23 year-old demonstrated strength of character in the later stages, where the going gets tough for everyone. She battled with cramp towards the end, but was still able to radiate her characteristic smile for Mum and Dad, both of whom have previously run the course, and was proud of her 3½ hour finishing time.
Majorca Long Course - 23nd April 2023
Meanwhile, in Spain the weather was totally different, with Bourton Roadrunners being represented at two different locations. At the Majorca Long Course participants selected their mix of events. Maxine Emes chose a swim/run combination and Darren Long the cycle/run combination. Despite the cycle event being cancelled, Darren still ran the half marathon, where he finished 2nd, achieving a podium finish in a time of 1:30:49. Maxine completed her 3.8k swim in a brilliant time of 60 minutes and 4 seconds, followed by the half marathon in 1:47:26 where she was 5th lady.
Madrid Marathon - 23rd April 2023
On the same day, Claire Carroll ran at the Madrid Marathon, which was part of the Zurich Rock ‘n’ Roll Running series. With many people walking from halfway due to the heat and hills, Claire battled on, enjoying the more than 30 entertainment stages around the course, finishing in 4:47:39.
Malvern Trail Marathon and Half Marathon - 22nd April
Nearer to home six club members took part in the Malvern Trail Marathon and Half Marathon, organised by the Heart of England Long Distance Walkers Association, which had a 20-hour time limit, with check-points around the course.
Taking on the shorter distance was Miron Darby, Lorna Shawcross and Alex Pye, while Susan Hunt, Janet Balinski and Derek Darby completed the longer distance. As it was self-navigation event, the actual distances varied according to individual's map reading skills. Great fun was had by all.
Parkrun
Also on Saturday, Bourton Roadrunners was present at the following parkrun events:
Cheltenham Pittville Park: Louise Hamilton-Smith – 30:39.
Skipton: Steph Holton – 25:51 (1st LV55).
Highlights
Eva completed her debut marathon at the iconic London Marathon, pursuing the standard set by parents Niamh and Ian.
Eva with close friends at admiralty arch.
Darren and Maxine continue their overseas eventing, this time at the Majorca Long Course.
Claire took-on the Madrid Marathon, battling the heat and hills.
Miron, Lorna, Alex, Susan, Janet and Derek enjoyed the Malvern Trial Marathon and Half.
Other reports may be found on our recent race reports page.