2003 Red Lion 10K Report

11:00 10 August 2003 at Red Lion PH, Hernhill, nr Faversham

2003 individual results »   2003 team results »

On a day on which Britain experienced 100F temperatures for the first time, 272 runners (out of 337 entrants) courageously managed to overcome both the torrid conditions and the hilly course at the Red Lion 10K at Hernhill near Faversham. Many runners were, as a result, as much as 10 minutes down on their normal 10K times, with only seven runners breaking 40 minutes.

Theo Bately (Deal Tri) and Shelly Hillier (unattached) were victorious in the men's and women's races, respectively. Theo overhauled an early lead by Lee McMeekin (Medway & Maidstone AC) to emerge the clear winner by half a minute but in the slowest time (35:59) in the five year history of the event. Since Lee McMeekin (who ran 36:25) had entered on the day, second prize was actually awarded to Ian Reid (37:44; unattached), with Michael Ellsmore (38:32; Cambridge Harriers) third.

Just over a minute behind Shelly Hillier, who finished in 42:18, was Annabelle Stearns (43:21; Gravesend RR & AC) and third amongst the women was Sharon Hawkins (45:11; Maidstone Harriers).

In the team competitions, the Ashford and District Road Runners, consisting of Andrew Phillips (4th in 39:06), Ian Cox (6th in 40:46) and Daniel Green (8th in 41:02), took in the men's team prize. Deal Tri, consisting of Mo Ovenden (8th in 49:28), Sally Scoggins (16th in 55:06) and Michelle Read (29th in 1:02:18) took the women's team prize.

Unfortunately, many runners suffered in the heat, with one man collapsing on the finish line. He was swiftly taken to hospital and was reportedly recovering well. All runners naturally needed the drinks provided and each finisher received a commemorative mug to mark their achievement.

Canterbury Harriers were grateful to all the members and friends who helped out with organising the race and to the police and St John Ambulance Brigade for their assistance. Many thanks also to Invicta Radio and Shepherd Neame for sponsorship, as well as, of course, the Red Lion pub at Hernhill.

2003 individual results »   2003 team results »