After a blistering summer, autumn has arrived with a bang, quite literally, with a few thunderstorms and torrential rain. But this brings much nicer running conditions, so our members have been back out there clocking up their mileage. Do you fancy joining us? West Coast Runners are a small, friendly club of all ages and abilities that will support and encourage you whether you are returning to running or starting out on a new adventure. It is a great way to meet new friends and talk to like-minded people. Our Facebook page is kept up to date with our monthly schedules and events or for more information please call Di on 97761015 or Gerry on 99926291
September and October Race Reports submitted by Neil Bithell, Rita Leyland & Jo Parry
Run the Park 10 km – September
Rita and Neil successfully completed this 10km race, Run the Park, which was organised by Dromea Running Club at the Athalassa Park, Nicosia. Both were happy with their times – Neil 58 mins and Rita in 1: 04 mins. The route was beautiful and shady in parts, both on trail and pathed. The race was well supported with lots of Marshals. They had a fabulous welcome from all of the Dromea club with a special mention on the microphone prior to the race, which was nice. Although it was a very early start, it was well worth it. Definitely one for next year!
Cyprus 10k Grand Prix – September
Well, that’s the 4th Cyprus 10k Grand Prix race completed so far this year by myself & Rita , the last one in the series being in December & will be held in Paphos. We both had great results, 52 mins & 60 mins respectively. It was a beautiful morning, a little cooler, and the route was mostly running in the shade. This is a flat, fast road race which was run by hundreds of runners over 1k ,5k & 10k all looking for good times. We were cheered on by lots of supporters & photographers, including our partners Karen & Chris. This is a very well-organized race, and everyone was personally welcomed by the race starter, there was a buzzing atmosphere with plenty of refreshments supplied by the main sponsors, Keo drinks manufacturers. We are both looking forward to next year.
Lakatamea – 10km – October
Jo Parry & Di Henry-Ward completed the 10km race in Lakatamea.
It was a very well organized race with plenty of Marshalls and a good route. The weather held out after it rained all night and we had a bright and sunny start. It was a good 10km and Jo won her first ever trophy, coming 2nd in the over 60’s group. Jo said she was so thrilled and is hoping to compete in this wonderful race next year.
Famagusta 30km – October
Another brilliant weekend in Protaras for this inaugural 30km race. It was a very humid morning, but our training had gone well so we felt fully prepared for this challenge. The preparation and organization were excellent, we had received lots of emails prior to the race with so much information. Neil said that he started slowly but finished strong. Rita said she enjoyed it and was happy to complete it as this was her longest distance in an organized race. The course was fairly flat and fast and there was plenty of support along the way and vast amounts of refreshments at the finish. Neil enjoyed it so much he is already planning for next year’s race hoping to come back with a PB. Again, we were supported by our partners and friends who also completed the 5km race.
West Coast Walkers
Some of our group enjoyed a weekend in Protaras and found some lovely walks. It was great to walk in another part of the island. Everyone had a good time, and we will be looking to go to other places in the future. If you would like to join us, then please see our West Coast Walkers Facebook page where you will also see lots of photos taken during the year.
