The start of Chilford 10k

MORE than 160 runners turned out for the Chilford 10K, which went ahead on Sunday despite the recent major fire at the Linton venue.

Thanks to the decision by Chilford Hall staff to carry on with the event organised by Saffron Strider Stephane Toussenel from Linton, the Chilford 10K took place on a sunny Father’s Day, making the occasion ideal for family to come and cheer up runners.

Runners set off for two laps course in and around the vineyard. First home was Sullivan Smith from Cambridge & Coleridge Athlectics Club in 35min 38secs, closely followed by Maz Firouzi from Cambridge Tri Club in 35mins 52secs. Third was Jonathan Philipps, from Cambridge & Coleridge, who is just 19-years-old. He completed the hilly course in 36mins 10secs.

It didn’t take long before the first lady crossed the finish line; Esther Rodriguez from Cambridge Tri was 8th overall in 39mins 10secs. Second lady was Saffron Strider Fiona Tideswell in 43mins 19secs and third was 18-year-old Archer Holly, in 44mins 15secs.

The race saw a contingent from race co-sponsors the Saffron Striders turn out, with 20 club members taking part. Along with Fiona’s excellent time, other notable performances included a hard-fought 10th place for James Kew (39mins 41secs), a superb 15th place finish for Chris Dodge in 40mins 19secs and three consucutive spots from 22nd to 24th for Seth Kennard (41mins 46secs), Benedict Kennard (41mins 55secs) and Matthew Billis (42mins 2secs).

Alongside the 10K was a 5K event mainly for to first timers and junior runners under 15. Sophie Tooley from Bury St Edmunds left the competition behind to win the race in an incredible 19mins 21secs.

Runners were awarded with prizes from Advance Performance, wine and tasting tour from Chilford Hall and Pilate sessions from Body Design Pilates from Linton. The race was sponsored and supported by Kevin Henry estate agents, Nextnorth Web design, Saffron Striders running club and Iceni Water.

The funds raised at the event will benefit the Linton Out of School Club and also Sue Ryder Care.

Full results are available at losc.co.uk