Burgess makes waves at Beachy

Saffron Strider Paul Burgess impressed at the Beachy Head Marathon - considered by those in the world of trial racing to be among the toughest events that can be undertaken in the UK. Like all marathons, it is both physically and mentally demanding, but w

Saffron Strider Paul Burgess impressed at the Beachy Head Marathon - considered by those in the world of trial racing to be among the toughest events that can be undertaken in the UK.

Like all marathons, it is both physically and mentally demanding, but where the Beachy Head Marathon differs from most is that it includes an array of inclines whose severity brings the competitors to a near-walking pace.

For his second ever attempt at a 26.2 mile race, Burgess passed the challenges that it laid before him, including a series of severe inclines with consummate ease.

His time of 3hr 56min was impressive, but this was put into its real perspective by his overall position of 84th within a field of over 800 runners.

Debs Frostick, owner of the specialist running shop Runnerway in Cromwell Road, Saffron Walden ventured to the Netherlands for her second marathon of the year.

The Amsterdam Marathon is one of the top 10 marathons in the world, attracting an impressive field of runners from across the globe and she crossed the line in an impressive 3hr 57min.

The Great South Run attracts a huge field of participants with more than 10,000 runners descending on Portsmouth. Saffron Striders' Frances Reynolds produced a fantastic performance to record a time of 1hr 25min 39sec.

Winter is a busy time for Striders. The club enters several teams into the Hereward Relay from Peterborough to Ely at the end of November. December sees the start of the cross country season as well as the annual Tinsel Run.

Further information on the club can be obtained from www.saffronstriders.org.uk or from Rob Woodward 01223 836017.