Darren Rodmell Sets New PB in Derwentwater 10 Road Race

In contrast to last year’s washout, conditions were dry and sunny for this year’s Derwentwater 10 road race which took place in the Lake District on Sunday.  The race attracted a record entry of 580 runners, 15 of them from Beverley AC.

The challenging 10-mile course starts in Keswick town centre and follows the narrow and winding road around Derwentwater.  With long inclines and steep hills runners need a lot of stamina but views of the stunning Lakeland scenery make it well worth the effort.

Darren Rodmell was the first Beverley runner to finish.  He recorded a new personal best time of 1.02.54, an amazing three minutes faster than his previous best.  Rodmell has a lot of experience running in the Lake District having already completed the Coniston 14 and the Windermere Marathon this year.

The first Beverley lady to cross the finishing line was Lucy Stamford in 1.14.13.  Spurred on by the stunning scenery and fine weather she finished two minutes faster than last year.

With excellent support from fellow club members Jayne Dale, Margaret Richardson, Dianne Coleman and Sylvia Boardley, a number of Beverley runners recorded new course best times.  Amanda Ritchie, Andy Johnson, Frank Harrison, Lucas Meagor and John Boardley all finished several minutes faster than last year.

New member Rachel Cope chose Derwentwater for her first 10-mile race.  She completed the course in a commendable time of 1.46.02.

The race was won by James Douglas of Border Harriers in 51:56.  The first female to finish was Rebecca Robinson of Kendal AC who broke the 24 year old course record with a time of 56:23.

NB East Hull Harriers took home two well deserved veteran’s prizes.  Beverley Jackson was the ninth lady to finish and won first prize in the 50 – 54 age category, finishing in 1.09.50, while Ken Barnes won first prize in the 70 to 74 age group in 1.17.17.

Beverley AC finishing times:
Darren Rodmell 1.02.54; Andy Johnson 1.05.26; Andy Tate 1.09.10; Lucy Stamford 1.14.13; Lucas Meagor 1.16.50; Brian Richardson 1.21.28; Andrew Brant 1.21.37; Amanda Ritchie 1.23.11; Debs Brant 1.28.47; Frank Harrison 1.37.12; Pete McNally 1.43.08; John Boardley 1.43.13; Rachel Cope 1.46.02; Sarah Tock 1.53.43; Ivor Roberts 1.53.44.

Photos by Jayne Dale and Margaret Richardson of Beverley AC

Photos by Jayne Dale and Margaret Richardson of Beverley AC