What a fantastic start to the racing season for West Coast Runners (WCR) with the 27th Logicom Cyprus Marathon, which took place in Paphos on Sunday 9th March. WCR is known as a small friendly running club, but the majority of our full and associate members took part in either, the Marathon, Half Marathon, 10Km and the 5Km races and if they were unable to run they took on the role of Marshals. Other members and family came along to support the runners and to take the must have photos. The weather was good, sun with some cloud and perfect temperatures, ideal for running. I think everyone would agree that the organisation on race day was excellent and the event was enjoyed by everyone.
Marathon Race:
Sarah stated, “This was my sixth time running the Logicom Cyprus Marathon, and it never gets old! I’ve always loved the race, but seeing the incredible support from the West Coast Runners Marshals over the years is what inspired me to join as an associate member. We visit Cyprus about six times a year and always make a point to join the club for their regular runs and social events. Finally, getting to run the marathon wearing my West Coast Runners vest was an emotional moment ….an experience I’ll never forget! I am already looking forward to doing it all again next year!” Sarah finished the Marathon in 05:11:00. Well done!
Neil took part in the Marathon and he also ran the 5Km Sunset Run, which took place on 8th March, with his daughter Rebecca. Neil stated that, “he had a wonderful and special weekend spent with his daughter Rebecca, her boyfriend Stephen and my son Kyle who all joined me from the UK to run the Logicom Marathon, Half Marathon, 10Km and 5Km respectively, we all enjoyed the events. The sun was out and the atmosphere was electric, the weekend was all planned and organised exceptionally well. There’s already talk of entering next year, thanks to everybody who helped make this an amazing weekend.” Neil achieved a PB in the Marathon with a time of 04:24:00. Well done!
Half Marathon:
Alan, Claire, Di, Mark, Rita, Ruth and Viv took part in the Half Marathon and all did brilliantly well. It was great to see runners from home and abroad enjoying the overall atmosphere. The Marshals were excellent, cheering and encouraging the runners, and there were ample fluid stations on route to ensure the runners were kept well hydrated. Following the Half Marathon, Viv and Di were presented with Trophies in their age group; Viv was awarded 1st place and Di second place. Well done to both!
10Km Race:
Angela, Christine, Gerry, Jo Parry, Karen, Kathy, Linda, Louise and Svien took part in the 10Km race and they all achieved respectable results, although not all of the training had gone according to plan. Gerry and Karen have written about their experiences. Gerry says that,”although I was a little nervous, I joined the throng at the start of the 10Km race. Nervous, because I had not done as much training as I would have liked. The weather was perfect and at 8.20 the hooter sounded and off we went. Always a bit tough at the start, to get into the rhythm, but with the crowds and my fellow West Coast Runners I had quite a good start. The first 3kms were done and thankfully the water station approached. A short breather here, then I started off again; I was pleased to see the 5Km turnaround at Riccos as I was now on the homeward stretch. I did have to do a bit of walking, more training needed, but I was pleased with my finish time of 1:25:27. The organisation was great and the Marshals and the supporters around the course certainly helped my race.”
Karen stated that, “my running journey started a few years ago with West Coast Runners when I began the Couch to 5K Programme. The only running I had done previously was at school. I have got to admit that running is not my favourite past time but I was determine to overcome my demons! The 10Km race was the first event I had ever entered and with the help and encouragement from WCR and especially Viv, I achieved my goal. I thoroughly enjoyed the day and the atmosphere and I am looking forward to participating in future events.” Karen achieved a PB in the 10Km race with a finish time of 1:28:18. Well done!
Finally, none of the above would happen without the wonderful volunteers who help prior to race day with the packing of the Goody Bags and giving them out to runners and the Marshals on the actual day. Once again, WCR/WCW and family members ran 3 Water Stations on the Marathon route. They do their duties whatever the weather, thankfully the weather was ideal this year and they all had an enjoyable experience and appreciated the gratitude shown by the runners. A big thankyou to you all!
Afterwards we all celebrated the day with an excellent Roast Dinner at Neo’s Sports Bar. Thank you, Viv for organising the Social. Well it had to be done, didn’t it?
Come along and give running ago!
We welcome all runners, would be runners and complete beginners. Non-members can try a couple of runs with absolutely no obligation. We are a very friendly, easy-going club with a wide range of abilities and ages. You can chat to us on our Facebook page or contact Di 97761015 or Gerry on 99926291 for more information.
